Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I am planning on building a shelf this weekend to hold some 28 qt sterilite cages (for leos). To obtain good circulation, should I leave a small gap of 1/8 - 3/16 above the tank rims (between the sterilite and the next shelf) - OR - should I make the cage touch the next shelf (full seal), and drill holes and install a piece of screen in the front and back of the cage so air can pass through. Any difference between the two? I am leaning toward the full seal as I figure there would not be a risk of over heating the cage as long as I put enough holes/screen at the top edge of the cage to allow for heat to leave (and not build up) Any experience appreciated! Thanks!
-----
livXpreshun
1.1 High Yellow Leopard Geckos [seperate cages]

"I've thought about things that kings and queens cannot spell." - Gary Busey

I'm not sure why you would want the full seal? The only thing I can think of is that you might be worried about prey items escaping through that gap. If so you might want to check on the leopard gecko forum and see if this is a problem.

It is not from my experience with leopard geckos kept in lidless rack systems but maybe it has been for others.

The problem with the rim of the sterilite touching the shelf above is that the boxes will slide very poorly. Kind of ruins the main point of having a lidless rack - easy opening and closing of the cage.

But maybe I'm not understanding something about your concerns. The risk of overheating will not be any greater when leaving a gap. Afterall you can use your screen idea whether the gap is there or not.

Regardless, I say leave a gap.

Definately leave a 1/8" gap all the way around, if you try for a "tight" seal you will spill the water every time you slide the tub.