primetime34
New Member
We've had a 18"x22"x72" saltwater fish tank that is built into one of the walls of our home (it was there when we bought it). However, after 2.5 years of maintaining it, we have decided that it really isn't something we have a passion for, and thus, we don't want to continue spending money on it. As a family, we decided we'd like to set up a tortoise habitat with lots of plants, flowers, etc (and of course a tortoise ...probably a Greek from a local rescue). I know I have to put something around the front of the enclosure so the tortoise doesn't bang into it repeatedly.
So, I have a handful of questions (to start with)
1. I have an existing 60" T5HO ballast with 6 bulbs in it (for the coral). Can/Should I repurpose this for the lighting? Or should I look at a different setup?
2. What would be the best substrate? Organic potting soil? The coconut husk stuff? Peat moss?
3. Which substrate will be best for raising various plants in?
4. We haven't decided on all the plants we want to put in, but a few thoughts are: cactus, mint, basil, pansies....those are all fine according to the Tortoise Table plant database...other popular type plants for the enclosure?
5. I know air circulation can be an issue. What about a small fan, mounted on one side, for air circulation? In addition, could I put a small mister, that, on a timed schedule, would mist into the fan (which would also be on a timer)?
6. My wife is interested in putting a bonsai tree in it. Is this possible? If not, anything similar?
7. Obviously we want levels for this so it isn't just one level...any pictures or inspirations for that?
I think that's it for now (although I'm sure I'll have lots more questions as we go along). Thanks!
So, I have a handful of questions (to start with)
1. I have an existing 60" T5HO ballast with 6 bulbs in it (for the coral). Can/Should I repurpose this for the lighting? Or should I look at a different setup?
2. What would be the best substrate? Organic potting soil? The coconut husk stuff? Peat moss?
3. Which substrate will be best for raising various plants in?
4. We haven't decided on all the plants we want to put in, but a few thoughts are: cactus, mint, basil, pansies....those are all fine according to the Tortoise Table plant database...other popular type plants for the enclosure?
5. I know air circulation can be an issue. What about a small fan, mounted on one side, for air circulation? In addition, could I put a small mister, that, on a timed schedule, would mist into the fan (which would also be on a timer)?
6. My wife is interested in putting a bonsai tree in it. Is this possible? If not, anything similar?
7. Obviously we want levels for this so it isn't just one level...any pictures or inspirations for that?
I think that's it for now (although I'm sure I'll have lots more questions as we go along). Thanks!