I have made progress on the Madagascar biotype tank. I decided to build a rack to hold both of the 18x18x24 tanks, as well as the 36x36x18 tank. I wanted them to be at a comfortable height and I wanted the tops at the same height. At some point, I want to build a cover for masking lighting and lines for the misters. The wife refers to it as 'The Monstrsity!'
I tried to apply the lessons learned, with the previous two tanks, in the design of this tank. I built the ventilation from a sheet of black corrugated plastic, experimenting a bit with eight intake vents at the bottom of the system. My twisted thinking is that I will draw moist air from a broader area of the lower part to circulate across the top of the tank. We'll see how that one goes.
I went with three 40 watt jungle dawn spots for lighting, seems plenty bright to the substrate. I plan to plant with as many Madagascar plants as possible, but the available choices are a little scarce. I may have to augment with some non-typical plantings. At this point, I have several Angrecoids on hand and will order some more, plus a couple ferns from Andy's. I am fortunate that I live near Orchids Limited, where I have access for moss to start some growth. The background simulates a rock face which I kinda liked.
I have the standard exoterra screened lid, 3 of the four sections will be covered with plexiglass over the screen, the fourth section will screen only for ventilation and placement of UVB bulb and 100 watt ceramic heat lamp. I want to hold humidity as well as I can. I'm pretty sure that I can manage 70% RH pretty easily.
I should have it up and running for the growing family
Meet LF
I tried to apply the lessons learned, with the previous two tanks, in the design of this tank. I built the ventilation from a sheet of black corrugated plastic, experimenting a bit with eight intake vents at the bottom of the system. My twisted thinking is that I will draw moist air from a broader area of the lower part to circulate across the top of the tank. We'll see how that one goes.
I went with three 40 watt jungle dawn spots for lighting, seems plenty bright to the substrate. I plan to plant with as many Madagascar plants as possible, but the available choices are a little scarce. I may have to augment with some non-typical plantings. At this point, I have several Angrecoids on hand and will order some more, plus a couple ferns from Andy's. I am fortunate that I live near Orchids Limited, where I have access for moss to start some growth. The background simulates a rock face which I kinda liked.
I have the standard exoterra screened lid, 3 of the four sections will be covered with plexiglass over the screen, the fourth section will screen only for ventilation and placement of UVB bulb and 100 watt ceramic heat lamp. I want to hold humidity as well as I can. I'm pretty sure that I can manage 70% RH pretty easily.
I should have it up and running for the growing family
Meet LF
