Hi - I'm a newbie at reptile/amphibian but a very experienced fish and aquatic plant guy (25yr experience). I want to try something different and like the idea of 30% aquarium 70% vivarium - like the newish biopod. I like the idea of biopod:it's modular, auto/remote control, clean looking (you can't see the bits that make it work) and it can house some fish, plants (immersed/emmersed) and some animal life. However the biopod reviews aren't great and some have commented that you could better by building from your own component parts. What would be the top level shopping list of bits to make something with the look and functionality of the biopod? Habitat, lights (proper plant lights), heating, temperature/humidity control, misting, waterfall, pump/filter system etc. Any help really appreciated! I realise there's probably not enough information about what I'm aiming for in this post - but it's a start. The reason I'm asking what might seem like a stupid question is that I don't yet fully understand reptile/amphibian needs. So if anyone answers it will also help my learning. Cheers
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Better than biopod
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For heat control, it will depend somewhat on the type of heater. For all non-light-emitting heaters, a proportional controller is best. Those are available at herp supply dealers such as Reptile Basics Inc and the Bean Farm.
Type of heater depends on the reptile/amphibian needs. I think ceramic heat emitters are superb but for these animals (snakes especially), the emitter must not be able to be touched by the animal. Larger areas can use a radiant heat panel instead - at least the surface does not get as hot. RBI and the Bean Farm have those too.
Water temp control - you already know about that as a fish keeper. I still used a proportional controller for an aquarium heater on my turtle tank. I set the aquarium heater to about 82 just so it would stay ON, then I set the proportional controller at 80 to keep the water at 80. Much tighter control than the aquarium heater itself, and since you don't cycle the aquarium heater switch, they actually can last longer.
Misters are available (e.g. mist king).
