Tips for new Newt Viviarium

Kathryn002 · #1 (**permalink**) 12-05-2006, 04:27 AM

I have a new 6 gallon, 2 foot long newt vivarium (I know, small) and I need some tips on how to set it up. I hve some plans, and I'll post them later, but I would still like some more expert advice.

Thanks everyone; I'm completely open to suggestions.

Rainfrog · #2 (**permalink**) 12-05-2006, 06:53 AM

2 feet long and only 6 gallons? Sounds like an interesting looking tank do you have pictures?

Kathryn002 · #3 (**permalink**) 12-05-2006, 12:01 PM

I know, it is rather odd. It is designed for use as a vivarium, so is long and not very tall. I'll try to get some photos today. Thanks.

Kathryn002 · #4 (**permalink**) 12-05-2006, 03:33 PM

Here's a couple of pics.
I haven't done anything to the tank yet, just making plans!!

Rainfrog · #5 (**permalink**) 12-06-2006, 03:12 AM

Very interesting. I have seen alot of places that have little shelves or out cropings along the wals and thought "I wonder what I would put there?" That would be it. I have never seen a tank like that. It should be great for newts.

Kathryn002 · #6 (**permalink**) 12-06-2006, 04:25 AM

Thanks. When I saw it I thought that's perfect.

Landon · #7 (**permalink**) 12-06-2006, 08:59 AM

thats pretty cool. is it only 8" tall and 8" wide?

what type of newts are you planning on keeping?

i think a rocky river bank could look good in there and be a good way to provide your newts with a lot of good hiding spots.

Kathryn002 · #8 (**permalink**) 12-06-2006, 12:01 PM

Thanks. yes, it is 24 by 8 by 8 inches.
i already have a couple of firebellied newts which I plan to move from their existing (smaller) tank, to hte new one.

I think a river back, or at least some sort of rocky area to serve as land would be nice. Wha I may do, is get a glass (or similar) box, like a small vase, and have rocks leading up to it. If it is not vcery well hidden, and looks unnatural when I set up the tank, I will have to think of something else.

Thanks for the suggestions.

Landon · #9 (**permalink**) 12-07-2006, 12:10 PM

i think for fire bellied newts you would be fine with a mostly aquatic set up, with some of the rocks (or piles of rocks) protruding out of the water for a basking area. i found mine would even hang out on plants that were growing out of the water, as long as their leaves were close to the surface.

this way the whole bottom of the tank could be filled and keep you from having to divide a land and water section. with only 8" height, im not sure how itll work out though....

Kathryn002 · #10 (**permalink**) 12-07-2006, 03:42 PM

Yes, that;s what I was thinking. I've made a rough draft, but I'm still open to any suggestions.