Opinions on tank

[PaulaO]

I have a 162 gallon tank. I got it years ago for a koi but we twisted it getting it out of the truck and it cracked. You can't feel the crack but it won't hold water.

The tank measures 73"w x 19"d x 27"h.

Thoughts?

- I can have one dragon with a lot of room. I can put in a divider and have 2. Or I can get two females and not use a divider.

- Is the 19" wide enough?

- Is the 27" too deep? I may build a bottom to raise it up a little so I can clean.

I'm also considering putting it on its side but the UVB has to be direct, with no glass between, right?

 

[ImTheLichKing]

It's big enough to split for 2. If you had one most likely won't utilize the hole space.
Pic?

 

[CooperDragon]

It's a bit narrow for an adult dragon but would work. I would use it for one dragon, not more. You don't need to use a divider. Just build some branches for climbing and have hides available. Having that amount of space will let you create a nice heat and UVB gradient. The UVB won't penetrate glass so you will have to keep it upright and suspend the lights above it.

 

[PaulaO]

It's a bit narrow for an adult dragon but would work. I would use it for one dragon, not more. You don't need to use a divider. Just build some branches for climbing and have hides available. Having that amount of space will let you create a nice heat and UVB gradient. The UVB won't penetrate glass so you will have to keep it upright and suspend the lights above it.

I had some from back when I first got it but dang, I can't find them! I'll take some more as soon as I get the stuff in front of it moved. We got a hollow core door to put on the top with the intention of using it for storage. It's leaning against it so the tank is hidden.

 

[PaulaO]

It's a bit narrow for an adult dragon but would work. I would use it for one dragon, not more. You don't need to use a divider. Just build some branches for climbing and have hides available. Having that amount of space will let you create a nice heat and UVB gradient. The UVB won't penetrate glass so you will have to keep it upright and suspend the lights above it.

I realized that is the exterior dimensions. I was alone when I measure and the tape measure wasn't cooperating very well.

The more I think about it, the more I think I will be building an enclosure. That tank is so freakin' heavy and long. Have to build a stand for it anyway. Once in place, it would be a PITA to move again. But I can put an enclosure on wheels.

 

[CooperDragon]

Building one will also allow you to have front opening doors which is a huge bonus over having to reach in from the top, move lights to access, etc.

 

[PaulaO]

True! That beast is tough to lean into and reach the bottom.

Is there an already produced 4x2x2 tank for reptiles? I went to PetSmart yesterday and they had an Exo Terra large which is 36x18x18. It was $189USD. Anything bigger would cost more. I'm sure I can make something for less than that.

 

[CooperDragon]

That's the one I have. I find it to be small for an adult dragon. It would be better if you can build one larger. There are some available that are custom built but they are expensive to both build and ship.