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Materials for large terrarium... what's best?

thesamuraigeisha Jul 03, 2005 09:42 AM

I'm looking to build a tank for my turtles, probably about 200 gallons. Is glass or acrylic better for this? What thickness do I need with either? Is silicon strong enough on it's own, or do I need to build a frame of some sort for added support? Where can you buy sheets of glass or acrylic of the necessary size and thickness that isn't too expensive? Any help is appreciated.
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10 Snakes
3 Turtles
3 Cats
1 Dog
Numerous fish and millipedes

Replies (1)

chris_harper2 Jul 04, 2005 09:34 AM

Most people I know dislike acrylic for turtle tanks as they tend to scratch it up too much.

Regarding thickness, etc., you're best off checking some of the DIY aquaria sites. Most turtle tanks are not full of water so the glass does not need to be as thick as regular fish tanks. There is probably somebody out there that can calculate that for you, however.

You should be able to get the rest of your questions answered as well.

If you do go with glass be sure to order the bottom panel with at least one hole drilled in it. For 200 gallons the glass will need to be tempered so drilling will have to be planned for. You'll appreciate the drain hole for cleaning.

>>I'm looking to build a tank for my turtles, probably about 200 gallons. Is glass or acrylic better for this? What thickness do I need with either? Is silicon strong enough on it's own, or do I need to build a frame of some sort for added support? Where can you buy sheets of glass or acrylic of the necessary size and thickness that isn't too expensive? Any help is appreciated.
>>-----
>>10 Snakes
>>3 Turtles
>>3 Cats
>>1 Dog
>>Numerous fish and millipedes
-----
Current snakes:

1.1 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Silver/Yellow)

2.2 Gonyosoma oxycephala - (Green)

4.3 Gonyosoma janseni - (Black)

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