How to choose reptile vivariums
Vivarium is the word used to describe the housing for reptiles, just as aquarium describes that which houses fish. More than just a container, however, the vivarium has within it various materials and devices which control or influence many environmental parameters, ensuring perfect conditions for its reptile inhabitants. Important components include lighting, heating, substrates and decoration plus devices for monitoring temperature and measuring and controlling other conditions such as humidity. The reptile keeper has a choice of either putting all these components together himself or buying a complete package, which is already configured with all necessary equipment. Lifeforceonline offer a large range of reptile equipment, basic vivariums, accessories or the option of purchasing ready to run kits suitable for both beginners and the advanced reptile hobbyist. If you prefer to configure and customise your own vivarium we have a range of basic vivarium shells, which enable you to fit your choice of equipment and decoration. Currently the range of basic vivariums is as follows.

Glass Vivariums.
The basic glass vivariums have sliding front doors for easy access and maintenance and include a metal vivarium lid. The Lid has a central glass sliding panel for top access, ventilation grid to one side and an aperture to the opposite end for accommodation of a basking spot lamp, heat lamp or ceramic heating element. Lids are available with the option of two hole sizes for fitting of either the basking spot/heat lamp fitting or the ceramic heat lamp holder. Both the vivarium and lid are finished in black trim. Sizes available are 24x15x12 inches (60x38x30cm), 30x15x12 inches (75x38x30cm) and 36x15x12 inches (90x38x30cm). Glass vivariums are very easy to keep clean and hygienic and provide a light, airy environment.

Glass Vivariums without front access.
Glass vivariums without front access are basically an aquarium with a vivarium lid fitted. The vivarium lid is exactly the same as the lids fitted to vivariums with sliding front access as above. These are cheaper than sliding front vivariums and although not quite as convenient for access and maintenance they are worth consideration, particularly if on a tight budget.

Wooden vivariums.
Wooden vivariums are the choice of those who would prefer their system to match with their furniture or house decoration. Available in a number of melamine finishes from light oak to mahogany and with a number of features. Features include sliding front doors, glass base tray for hygienic substrate retention, Hinged hood to accommodate lighting and some heating systems and a full mesh cover separating the lighting/heating area from the rest of the vivarium. A space to the rear of the hood unit allows easy access for cables and provides ventilation. These units are available in sizes (Maximum external dimensions) 20x24x15 inches (50x60x38cm), 26x24x15 inches (66x60x38cm), 32x24x15 inches (80x60x38cm) and 38x24x15 inches (96x60x38 cm). Because wooden vivariums are made from a denser material than glass they are thermally efficient but front viewing is reduced because of the hood depth. These very attractive units are worthy of consideration if a furnished look is required but are more expensive than glass units Wood finishes currently available are light oak, teak, mahogany, dark oak and rosewood.

Flat pack Vivariums.
A range of flat pack vivariums with melamine finish and Perspex sliding doors are planned but not yet available. These units for easy self-assembly will offer a cost effective alternative to pre-assembled wooden ones.

Flexibility and options to customise are two reasons why you may wish to choose a basic vivarium shell and add the components of your choice. Lifeforceonline are pleased to offer advice and help in choosing either a basic vivarium or a vivarium kit, contact us on support@lifeforceonline.co.uk.