I made some vivariums about 5 years ago that didn't work out too good. I don't recall how I made them though, so I am going to ask for advice of those who have them before trying again.
I was thinking of using a 20-gallon tank for my 2 mantellas, wonder if it is too short. Should I use a 29-gallon tank fish tank instead of the reptile 20-gallon?
For the false bottom I planned to use the plastic eggcrate with fiberglass screen on top to seperate it from the next layer. I am thinking of using pvc pipes to keep this plastic eggcrate up. Anything better to hold it up?
Now when it comes to substrates, I am confused what is best. Peat moss? or the coco fibers? Mixtures? I want something that will be able to last over a year. I don't want to tear apart and rebuild every month.
I haven't decided on plants yet so that will wait. (Don't worry, I will rinse them well and repot them before placing into cage to make sure they are safe.) I do want to use a piece of ghostwood though which will hopfully grow some moss over time. I will be using at least 2 uv lighting. One is Retisun 5.0 and the other will be for the plant. Sound good?
I will use a coco panel board for the back and make a pump cycle water from bottom of tank to the top of the coco panel to keep it constantly damp. Bad idea or good?
I am also considering having a custom built cage so I can install a fan behind the coco panel to blow air through to help cool the tank off since right now it is warm in my area. I want them as comfortable as possible.
Would it be overkill to also add a sonic fogger to turn on in the morning and night like real fog? I was thinking of misting also, but not sure since I wonder if I am going over board with keeping the cage humid.
Anything I forgot about? I really want it to work this time and last more than a month. Hopefully with enough planning and advice it will happen.
