20g hognose or gecko plants - Page 3

Yemeyana · #21 02-08-2011, 11:47 AM

Okay, thanks.

...The aquarium is a strange shape (I wouldn't recommend it to anybody) so I may be getting a Vivexotic L36 vivarium instead - it fits the space available better and has a sliding front for better access.

I don't suppose that changes anything?

(I am completely new to all this, and I'm fairly bad at getting information, but if I'm instructed I pick things up no problem.)

rudukai13 · #22 02-08-2011, 09:16 PM

As for creating a natural-looking water bowl, how about building a rock base on one portion of the tank out of GS foam and then carving it to appear pitted. These features in nature collect rain in shallow pools all the time. Here's an idea of what I mean:

Yemeyana · #23 02-08-2011, 10:29 PM

Okay... so is this
GORILLA FILLER EXPANDING FOAM GAP FILLER & SEALS 500 ml on eBay (end time 17-Feb-11 12:57:10 GMT)
Any substitute for Great Stuff foam? I already have some 'Gorilla filler'.

I was thinking along those lines for the water 'dish', but would that be difficult to replace the water in?

I'm also a little confused about using real stone for the background, and for the rock shelf. The only access to such rocks is from the fish section of the pet store, and I think they'd be too small. Unless you mean to attach them together and use some filler?

SobaTales · #24 02-18-2011, 04:53 PM

If you use actual rocks, you could use grout to hold them together. Just make sure you soak it in vinegar/water mix to lower the Ph. I am not sure if that would be much of a problem for a desert set up but better safe than sorry.

The outcrop idea is really cool as it would provide both a shady spot and a basking spot assuming the snake can climb up to it. For this, it would probably be easier to create it yourself. This is a really helpful website that has good step by step instructions on creating your own rock sculptures that look very naturalistic:
Lizard care, and fake rock wall landscapes

boabab95 · #25 02-18-2011, 05:07 PM

or instead having to wait for grout to soak, you could use silicone!

SobaTales · #26 02-18-2011, 06:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by boabab95

or instead having to wait for grout to soak, you could use silicone!

Very true! While it is still wet, you can sprinkle some sand (sanitize first) into it. This cuts down on the shine/plastic look it will have. Cover it with some darker neutral toned acrylic paint (I suggest mixing your own from the primary colors to match and blend it in) and you will have a great looking piece. Don't forget to post pics when you get started!

Yemeyana · #27 02-19-2011, 12:11 AM

Wow, that site may have been the lifesaver I was looking for

I had noticed that the outcrop has the advantage of increasing 'ground' area and providing shelter. I'm considering putting some dry-looking grasses in front of it - one thing I'e learnt from fishkeeping is that animals look amazing when seen between plants.

Yemeyana · #28 02-19-2011, 10:17 PM

Would it be a good idea to build the shelf structure from wood, then add texture? Almost like a textured bookshelf. The enclosure is wooden, so it might even work to screw it directly into the cage with some additional support?

SobaTales · #29 02-21-2011, 11:12 AM

Yeah you could do that, a little gs and grout could create a nice looking rock. You could also try to find the right shaped piece of drift wood - rugged and sun bleached would look really good.

Yemeyana · #30 02-21-2011, 06:42 PM

I was considering using driftwood for easier access. The garden centrfe sells some nice deserty-looking grasses inside seashells and small pots, so next time I go I'll ask about them. I also got a Haworthia fasciata in the post, and I have an Opuntia microdasys waiting to go in there.

In way of an update, the viv is sitting in its place waiting to be assembled!
I've heard wooden enclosures can be trouble though. Is this true?