How does a terrarium work?
Terrariums have a sturdy frame made of metal, plastic or sturdy wood. The walls are more often made of transparent glass for observation of the inhabitant. It is quite strong and shock-resistant. A lid is equipped on top, which is necessary to maintain the microclimate and create a barrier that prevents the reptile from escaping from the dwelling.
Advertisement
There is nothing inside the new terrarium, everything necessary to ensure the normal functioning of reptiles or insects is purchased separately.
Types of terrariums and accommodation
According to the type of placement, terrariums are divided into vertical and horizontal models.
Vertical terrariums are designed for animals living on the upper tiers – branches and crowns of trees, slopes of rocks, etc. The height of the body exceeds the length. The bottom is relatively small in size. A snake, a lizard and a tree frog can be populated in such a tank.
In horizontal terrariums, the body length exceeds the height. This spacious dwelling is ideal for terrestrial inhabitants – some species of lizards, skids, turtles, etc.
Sizes and shapes
The most common terrariums are rectangular and cubic in shape. The first ones are suitable for reptiles of different species, square containers are oriented for keeping burrowing pets. There are also decorative terrariums of spherical or domed shape, designed for moisture-loving plants.
The sizes of the terrarium are very diverse. This parameter is selected based on the size and number of reptiles. It is very important that the pet is not cramped in the new home.
What should be in the terrarium
To create the right microclimate, favorable for the vital activity of the selected pet, the terrarium is equipped with various elements.
The most important equipment:
ventilation system;
heating elements necessary for heat-loving inhabitants;
lighting device;
UV irradiation lamps;
devices that regulate the percentage of humidity in the tank.
Ventilation
Many terrariums already have two ventilation holes in the side walls, at the bottom or on the lid. They are necessary for effective ventilation of the tank. Pay attention to the location of the holes. They should not be opposed to each other, otherwise it will contribute to the appearance of drafts, which are very undesirable for reptiles. In addition, improper ventilation leads to the accumulation of carbon dioxide and promotes the proliferation of fungi and other pathogenic microorganisms.
