Threaded Rod and Melamine Rack

[SlyBlackDragon]

Hello folks. So I've had my baby corn snake Nimbus for a few months, and now I'm inheriting a juvenile ball python and rosy boa for the next few months.

I need a rack that can house diverse species that can grow with them if necessary.

I think using melamine shelves with threaded rod support will work well for my application. I can adjust the height for various tubs and modify it easily should my collection grow.

That said, I have a few questions.

1) For the corn snake would a 1/8th inch air gap be secure for a 3 month old 14g baby?

2) If using flexwatt for belly heat, how can I protect it from the tubs rubbing across it? I've heard there needs to be a gap between the tub and flexwatt. I was thinking of using 1/4" wood (screen bead) as runners.

3) Will adding holes to the rosy boa's tub be sufficient to keep humidity down?

4) If necessary, can foam insulation board be added to three sides to hold in heat and make three snakes feel secure?

5) What tub sizes for the BP and rosy boa?

If you can offer any assistance I would greatly appreciate it!

 

[backafter30]

1. I wouldn't give a baby corn 1/8 inch to work with.
2. You could cut a dado for the heat tape to recess into. Using runners to raise the tub negates the whole reason for using melamine: it's slick and tubs slide easily on it. Back heat is another option.
3. Depends on how many holes, and how hard it is to tip over the water bowl. No reason it wouldn't be enough.
4. I use foam sheets just like you said. Works great.
5. Depends on individual size. Neither are super active, or very large. "for the next few months"? If it's just temporary, you shouldn't have to worry about accommodating an adult.

Jim

 

[gekosin]

Just an odd question, how will you ensure all the different species get the correct heating requirements if they are in the same rack system? I would assume you are running the flex watt off of a thermostat, this would only allow you to set the temp for 1 animal requirement.