jobi,
I have many things to say about the information you posted, some in agreement and some not. As there are multiple sections I wish to comment on I will go down the list.

Chronic Dehydration: This has proven to be a problem with me as
well. I used to house a pair in a screen cage 4 feet tall, and
I always had the problem of water easily passing through the screen sides (when sprayed etc.). However, so long as there is some water source provided within the cage, the lizards will learn to use and depend upon this as a primary source of
hydration. if they were dehydrated they would spend all, or at least most of their time, in or near the water source in an attempt to remain hydrated. Daily mistings also help prevent this, as most will drink from water that runs down their faces, or from plant leaves wihin the enclosure.

Temperature gradient: We all know that this is very important to all lizards. I have found having one slightly higher watage lamp at the top of the enclosure to be sufficient. They will go where the heat is when they have need of it. But I feel that it is a valid point to say that this can lead to aggression and territorial displays. I have had this problem.

Plants: I don't understand why they should be placed outside the tank? Why not allow your lizards cover while at the same time making your cage more visually appealing? This is, regardless of whoever might think otherwise, how they live in the wild, and can thus not be "stressful" or inducing of aenorexia. My male armata is very shy and flighty, but that doesn't hinder his comsumption of foodstuff. Observations made of animals who are not provided sufficient hiding places, are observations of tamed/domesticated Animals who are not acting the way they would in the wild.

Viewing Pleasure of the Animals: I can't agree with you more, seeing my animals out and about, watching them react with and to one another makes it all worthwhile for me as well.

Breeder, yes or No: I do agree that it does require good husbandry to indce these lizards to breed, but what exactly entailed in good husbandry is debatable, often endlessly.

Regards EMWhite

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