Terrarium enclosure Flashcards
POTZ
(Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone)
Reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates are ectothermic animals and
cannot control their own body temperature.
All animals should be kept in species specific POTZ. To measure correct temperature in a terrarium multiple thermometers
are necessary.
Heating of the terrarium can be done in different ways, name 5
Basking heat
Ground heat
Room temperature
Heating cords inside the terrarium walls
Heating stick in water
Choosing which one to use depends mostly from the animals that is kept
in the terrarium.
Basking heat is provided to animals who spend most of their time where?
on branches or high in the terrarium.
The heat comes from an overhead source.
diurnal animals means what
active during the day
What types of reptiles are diurnal? (5)
Mostly snakes, chameleons, green iguanas, lizards, turtles
Basking heat can be provided by what types of heaters? (3)
Ceramic heaters, basking lamps or nocturnal heat lamps are used
Ceramic heaters are
non-light emitting porcelain heat “bulbs” that goes into standard ceramic lamp socket.
Basking spot lamps allow the reptile to
regulate their own body temperature by changing their location in the terrarium.
Basking spot lamps provide an intense vertical beam of heat energy throughout the terrarium.
Nocturnal infrared lamps produce
long wave infra-red heat, that
penetrates the scales and the skin, increases blood circulation and widens blood vessels.
Should be used with reptiles who are nocturnal.
Ground heat is the kind of heating is good for reptiles who
spend a substantial amount of time on the ground.
Useful only in terrariums with thin substrate, cooler locations or burrowing animals.
As ground heat heating mats, heating cables or hot rocks can be used.
Heating rocks are designed to replicate
the natural basking process in all
lizards and snakes.
Can burn reptile, causing injuries and sometimes even death. Should be avoided if possible.
Heating mats Should always be put
under the terrarium never inside.
Heating cables are Suitable to be used
inside or outside the terrarium.
UVB light is crucial for the production of
Vitamin D3, calcium absorption,
metabolic functions and growth.
The UV-lamps should be placed about 30cm from the animal.
UV-lighting requirement vary between species.
Reptile cage carpets are often
an ideal floor covering.
