Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi there,
I want to build my spectacled caimen a new enclosure that will last them for a while but need some information prior to drawing up plans. Right now they have no filtration and instead get their water cleaned twice a week, I'm hoping to set up something a little more convenient. Their water is heated by an undertank heater (outside of the cage) and they have infrared lamps for basking. Ok on to the questions...

I'd like to use a water filter so I don't have to change the water as often, what makes/models are best and for how many gallons? Also what kind of cleaning regime should I keep with that particular filter?

Any and all comments/suggestions welcome! They are currently both around 2 - 2 1/2 feet, growing and feisty. =)

I used a Bioforce filter on my last enclosure. It was rated to handle 500 gallons of water when used with a 250 gallon per hour pump. The thing I liked about it was that it has a UV bulb in it that killed all the algae. It kept 500 of croc pond crystal clear with out any problems. I had to rinse out the filter elements on it about once every three weeks and I still did a water change on the pond about once a month. The only major draw back was it wasn't on the cheap side. I think it was around $150 and the pump was another $70 or so. Hope this helps!

If your building the cage, you probably have the skills to build your own filter too. I am filtering a 500 gallon pond with a ($30.00) sump-pump and a (free) five gallon pastic bucket with a snap-on lid. Filled with ($5.00) worth of polyfill, and pea gravel I got from my driveway. I spent ($8.00) on hoses and fittings.
I also use a product for septic tanks($5.00). It is a (good bacteria)starter culture. This is mixed with the gravel and polyfill in the filter canister.
For $48.00 dollars I have a filter system that has kept 500 gallons crystal clean and odor free for over a year. I add 5 or so gallons to the pond every week to make up for evaporation. I back flush the filter every four months. This takes 5-10 gallons to cleanout collected solids.
I did have some alge trouble during the hottest part of the summer last year. A dozen crayfish cleaned it up in a week, made a good snack for my pets too.

Hey there. I am wondering what is this polyfill you are talking about? I have tried several different filter media and most just don't seem to be up to the task of being submerged for very long? Thanks
Chris