Fully sealed or vented top?

[xitch]

Hey guys,

I know this question has probably been asked before, but my search terms hasn't come up with much results, so i ask,

Do you prefer to have a fully sealed lid, or use any screen to vent the vivariums?

I use to have a solid pane of glass on my dart cages, but due to the condensation, and thus moss/algae growing on the front glass, I recently switched most of my tops to vents.

The lids are 3/4 glass, with a home built screen frame to fit snuggly into the top of the aquaria.

The attached picture should explain it well.

Why do you prefer whatever it is that you do?

[keith campbell]

I prefer a similar set up to what you have. Most of my older tanks have no ventilation. There is a very noticeable difference in plant growth between the two. IME

Keith

[ChrisK]

Yeah it's a lot better that way - how do you open that for feeding?

[Shenanigans]

I feel it's better to have it partially vented with screen as long as your humidity stays within range. If it drops you may need to seal it off.

[james67]

i like the versatility of forced circulation with the use of fans. it allows me to grow a more diverse arrangement of plants. while keeping humidity at the levels i desire, even with the heat drying out the air in the frog room.

[AFHokie03]

I use the method you do, with home made screens on the front part of the glass. Mine are small, just a couple inches but help with ventilation and do keep some of the moisture off the front. For my Exo-terras I have a piece of glass fit for the top and I can slide it back and forth to regulate the air flow. I keep the exo screen top in place, the glass just seals it off.

[vugger#1]

I feel an adjustable vent is the best way IMO. Seal it to drive the humidity up or open it an inch or more to dry it or just give them some ventilation. I have mine all running on a mistking system so it just makes for a easy way of regulating each them as needed without getting to crazy.

Kurt