Want to start a viv!!!

[bbebber]

Hello Everybody!

I'm new to the vivarium world but have become very interested in setting up my own, possibly to house some dart frogs. I'm trying to learn as much as possible and get a good idea of what I want to do before I actually start. I'm going to start out with a 10 gallon for now as it is my very first viv, and I want to do a false bottom with a small pond area and waterfall. I've got a small fountain pump that I was going to use for the waterfall and was thinking about putting some battin around it to act as filter media to catch anything that may get caught in it. Will this be sufficient or will an actual filter be needed? Also I was wanting to get cork bark for my background but am having a hard time finding it in flats, can anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks!

[Layna]

Not to sure on the batting idea.

If you want to look at some supplies online, you can try here:

HerpSupplies.com - Reptile Supplies, Vivarium, Reptile Accessories, Reptile Habitat, Reptile Lighting, Zoo Med, Reptile Supply, Lizard Supplies, Reptarium, Rep-Cal, Flukers, Reptile Bedding, Fresh-Air Habitat, Reptile Heat Pads

Also if you have a reptile show in your area, try one of thoese, there is ususally one booth/table that had live plants, and wood, etc.

[MRIGUY]

10 gallons might be small for a water complex water feature. It can and has been done but not generally as a first attempt. That said, if you have the patience and are handy... go for it. You can always switch to a larger tank at any time if you hit a wall. My recommendation is allow yourself extra time to build. Something always takes longer than planned. Additionally, allow time to plant and for the plants to take hold before adding your intended tenants. The slower you go, the better the long term chances of success.