Grimm's Vivarium "Build"

[Grimm]

Hey all, I just joined this site and I figured the best way to introduce myself is by showing off my first vivarium to you guys. I have been part of a local reptile forum for a few months now but they are mainly interested in snakes and "simple" tanks/cages so I went searching for a new home....And look where it brought me

So Ive been looking around this site and I know you guys will be happy with me because I can definately help satisfy your PICTAR CRAVINGS haha. Even though my vivarium is currently finished I will show you pictures from the build...And if the pictures arent enough I even have a couple videos with some explanation

[Grimm]

So here goes.....Started out by adding a layer of silicone to the glass...Then expanding foam while securing the foam tube, drainage tube, water pump tube, plant pots, waterfall rocks and driftwood







I then added the water/land separation also made from expanding foam, then trimmed off all the excess silicone







I then stuck a layer of Co-co fiber using silicone....If you are looking for a "safe" brand go with GE 1200.

[Grimm]

So once I finished all of the "Dirty Work" I lugged the beast upstairs...and set it on my custom built cabinet...By yours truely ...And did a test run...



Here is a link to a quick youtube video I made...
YouTube - Vivarium Progress

[Grimm]

Once I made sure it was water tight....I then added the drainage rocks, seperation screen, substrate, and the majority of the plants.

Here is a lengthy video describing most everything I used in the making of my Viv....
YouTube - Vivarium Progress - 90%

And a current photo of it "completed"...Sorry for the small pots sitting on the groud...I have a few extra pitcher plants in there until i get my smaller carnivorous tank set up.



In the water I have 4 Neon Tetras and 7 guppies....No pictures of the fish but I have one other occupant so far.

DU..DU...DUMMMM

Here is Ted...My Red Eyed Tree Frog

[beckdg]

EXCELLENT JOB... and ted is a handsome fella!

[beckdg]

one thing though... don't depend on those meters... the puck style meters are not accurate. they're not bad for a backup or if you have something to calibrate them periodically though.

[Grimm]

So after my Viv being complete for a month or two I have noticed a few problems and things that need changing...aswell as a few things to add.

Apparently Co-co fiber is very efficient at moving water across it....As a result the water has crept over to 2 of the pots nearest the waterfall and completely filled them over time...I plan on drilling holes into the bottom of EVERY pot to allow for drainage.

I am having trouble keeping everything moist even with my fogger system so I will be adding an automatic misting system to keep everything watered evenly.

I will add a small fan to allow for air circulation.

And finally I will be adding more mosses and vines that can easily be pinned to the co-co fiber.

I hope everyone enjoys my Viv "Build"...Feel free to comment, critisize, or give me suggestions and advice on how to inprove my pride and joy.

Grimm

[MtuPup]

Well I'm impressed by the level of what I'll call accommodation planning. I like your method of separating the water.

[Grimm]

Haha I'm not quite sure what you mean by that...Accomodation planning...

[froggsong]

And....... (bells and whistles please) STICKY status on your first(ish?) thread! lol. Way to go, that's just great. I'll corrupt my praise with more details of what I like tomorrow.