Views: 5
Ecological conditions
Location
The location of the vivarium if not correctly considered ,can be a source of stress in captive reptiles. Most commonly kept species originate from wild habitats and would require being kept in an environment that resemble their natural habitats . They should therefore not be exposed to too much noise , light , traffic, vibrations etc. that are completely different to those which it would experience in the wild.The vivarium should be sited in shady parts of the laboratory.
Humidity
Providing the correct humidity for individual species is important . the vivarium should neither be too hot or cold for the animal comfort .In order to measure the humidity within a vivarium, a hygrometer is essential.
Humidity levels can be increased via a variety of methods including mist spraying or by providing shallow water dishes or humidity chambers in focal parts of the vivarium. A water bowl placed towards the warm end of the thermal gradient will increase atmospheric humidity, whereas a water bowl placed towards the cooler end will keep humidity levels to a minimum.
Covering the aquarium with damp peats can also provide for this environment.
Temperature
Heating is essential, and requires an understanding of reptile biology. All reptiles are poikilothermic, meaning they are unable to generate metabolic heat and have a body temperature that varies with the temperature of their surroundings. The preferred body temperature (PBT) of a reptile varies with species, age, activity and season and is the temperature at which metabolism is optimal.
The thermal range requirements of a reptile will depend on whether it comes from a temperate, subtropical or tropical climate. In order to provide the optimum temperature for a reptile, a source of heat will need to be provided.
The type of heating method chosen should ideally be selected depending on whether the reptile is a heliotherm or thigmotherm. In the wild, heliothermic species derive radiant heat from basking in the sun’s rays; for this reason heat lamps are the preferred heating method. Thigmotherms include the more nocturnalspecies that gain heat via conduction from basking on warm objects; heat pads are therefore more suitable in this case.
In conjunction with lighting, temperature must be varied throughout the day, mimicking day/night cycles to keep living creatures’ circadian rhythms regulated.
The temperature for the vivarium meant for amphibians should not exceed 20oc.
Lighting
A lighting system is necessary to meet the requirements of many species and to better simulate the natural habitat. Solar energy is needed by many organisms to survive as it provides plants with nutrients and reptiles the additional heat they need. A day/night regulator may be needed to simulate light and dark periods to accurately create a natural environment.
Ventilation
Ventilation systems are meant to:
- Stabilize the air flow between the holding room and vivarium
- Circulate fresh air
- Prevent the growth of mold and bacteria and spread of harmful bacteria
Air flow should be monitored with room pressure monitors with high accuracy to avoid airborne contaminants. Differential pressure is maintained between the interior of the vivarium area and adjacent exterior . In general, vivariums should be kept free of outside contaminants.
Substrate
The substrate is the medium that sits in the bottom of the vivarium to absorb urine and faeces. There are a variety of substrate options available, some more aesthetically pleasing than others. The choice however should be determined based on the individual species’ geographical location; for example, desert dwelling species should be kept on sand, whereas terrestrial or burrowing species will appreciate coarse bark chips or wood chips. Whichever substrate is chosen; however, it must be nontoxic, easy to clean and not able to cause an impaction if ingested.
Cage furnishings and environmental enrichment
Cage furniture should be selected according to the animal’s needs, and should not include any rough edges or projections that can injure the animal. Arboreal species such as the chameleon enjoy exploring vertical space. They should therefore be provided with branches and foliage that are vertical or angled along with horizontal perches placed at various heights. Most terrestrial species require a bit of variety in their environment, such as rocks, logs or low-lying branches, along with opportunities to hide. Almost all species of reptile are secretive and welcome places to hide, placed at multiple points allowing the reptile to thermoregulate as appropriate. If reptiles are to be kept ,then the floor should be covered with sand or gravel and with a dish of water at one end and a piece of branch and some stones for basking and hiding,