plexiglass viv from scratch (need help)

[xetios]

so this is my first time one this site as well as my first post- and first id like to thank users for making this site amazing!

now down to business. i'm currently in job corps learning how to fix computers so i can leave here with a good paying job, and get my life started, but i miss being creative with my vivariums, aquariums etc.

currently i have a praying mantis is a cheap little platic tank i got from walmart with some moss to hold humidity and bark along the back wall. the problem is the bark is now starting to mold so everything must go.

-the new plan-
I need to buy a clear plexiglass premade tank, and if that doesn't work out i plan on making one on my own out of wood (sealed ofc) with clear plexiglass in the front. the problem is i dont know where i can get a decently cheap tank that's about the size of a computer tower (not in a position to make measurements at the moment, it just needs to fit on my dresser without being obnoxiously large)

-the inside-
it's going to look something like this:

the back is going to be fake rock comeplete with a small waterfall, and caves for crickets to hide (to help preserve them) ill have some small fish in the pond on one side, and plants with moss on the other.

-materials needed- (things i need help with will have *stars*)
names of small creeping plants for the back walls***
plexiglass (and where to get it in specific measurments)***
small ferns
small water pump***
foam block
great stuff seal
ultraflex2 concrete mix
plastic grate (for the bottom)***
small light for plants***
small guppies or betafish

also id like some plants to cover over the top of the water if anyone has ideas

[x5tr41ghtj4ck3t]

The main advantage of plexiglass is its durability.
The main disadvantage is that it scratches very easily.

Plexiglass (and glass) can be requested in specific measurements from Home Depot, (and I think Lowes).

Water pumps can be bought online (such as through ebay. Cheaper ones may be farther away (china), take weeks to get to you, and then you find out that you bought a pump that will not work with your household's voltage. Be sure to READ DESCRIPTIONS. You can also buy them a little bit pricier in a pet store.

plastic eggcrate can be found at Home Depot in the light's section (ask for light diffuser plates, grates, or panels)

plant lights usually depend on the plants in the enclosure. I would imagine regular UV bulbs would be fine, but you'll have to research that.

I am concerned for the fish you plan on incorporating. Praying Mantises have been known to eat mice, hummingbirds, and fish. If you want fish, they should be kept inaccessible of the mantis.

[chacmhaal]

For backgrond plants you can choose Ficus pumilia if you spray water enough and if light is powerfull enough, it grows a lot.

But, if i can give you my advice, you should avoid plexiglass because as said before me, it scratches very easily and with time it becomes ugly