First Attempt at Vivarium Build for Chameleon

[timmac69]

Originally Posted by Pavel

Viv came out very nicely!

The only concern I would have voiced wouldn't have been about the animals at all. (Considering the size of the cham, the water level did not look too high, nor should the turtle have been a source of stress. Stress would be caused by other animals in close proximity in the same inhabited area -- ie. some other creature living in the arboreal section.) No the only concern -- and this could be more so of one in your new larger build, would be for the plants. From the pics, the tank seems rather dim. What are you using for lighting (type and wattage, etc)?

Thanks for the feedback and I couldn't agree with you more. I had originally thought about putting LED lighting in the lower enclosure to highlight certain features but that would just be more electrical cords and timers. I currently have two exo-terra flourescent hoods with 3 bulbs in each....two 5600 full spectrum bulbs and one 5.0 repti-sun (on each side). The UVB get changed out every six months. Because I overplanted the tank (and the fact that it stands so tall), not much light filters down into the glass aquarium, so I only have small lichen gowing down there. The plants are mostly in the upper ventilated area. I would like to find something that would provide a more far-reaching lighting solution and I am certainly open to suggestions if you can think of anything to improve this.

My next build will be much larger and simpler in design. i am going to create a false bottom with cut-outs for potted plants to rest in and easy drainage to a tub hidden in the base. Glass on Front and back and screened on both sides. This should help to keep humidity levels where they need to be while also providing proper ventillation. The glass front will also provide a nicer viewing opportunity than the traditional screened doors. I may try LED lighting on my next build since I plan to keep that one heavily planted as well. I should probably get started on my next build, as our juvenile male panther is growing like crazy. He won't be in his current enclosure for much longer...and it is amazing to see his progression since April...he went from a gray little mini muppet to a vivid juvenile in no time...he is going to be a real screamer when he fully matures. These are truly amazing creatures..