African giant millipede temperature

mickiem

Arachnoprince
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I researched the heaters. Most of the smaller mat type heaters are fine for acrylic tanks, so I would assume the softer plastic as well. I thought about using seed heat mats. I've used those on particle board shelving and the seed trays are plastic (for seeds and plant cuttings; not millies). But that wouldn't be ideal for side mounts and they can raise the temp upwards of 20 degrees. And with 23 enclosures, would be a lot of checking everyday. I think my best option is my little ceramic heater I bought at Walmart. I think it was $30 and it has a safety feature if it gets knocked over it shuts itself off. I may have to move them to a small bedroom - not sure I want to live in 75+ degrees! I like having them near me so I can watch them. Much better than TV.
 

kjgalaxy

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Jul 7, 2016
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I researched the heaters. Most of the smaller mat type heaters are fine for acrylic tanks, so I would assume the softer plastic as well. I thought about using seed heat mats. I've used those on particle board shelving and the seed trays are plastic (for seeds and plant cuttings; not millies). But that wouldn't be ideal for side mounts and they can raise the temp upwards of 20 degrees. And with 23 enclosures, would be a lot of checking everyday. I think my best option is my little ceramic heater I bought at Walmart. I think it was $30 and it has a safety feature if it gets knocked over it shuts itself off. I may have to move them to a small bedroom - not sure I want to live in 75+ degrees! I like having them near me so I can watch them. Much better than TV.
And expensive at 35 enclosures. I love watching my millies too. Maybe you could get a couple side mounts and rotate out so you always have a few to watch
 

mickiem

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Could you use a dome heat lamp with a red 40W bulb?
I have a heathen hound dog who runs through the house chasing the evil cat. So no lamps for me! My godson has a bearded dragon and ball python in his room, so I do have lamps running there. It's a dog & cat free zone. Who's running this household, me or the critters?
 

Ratmosphere

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So I am now hearing that you can keep them at a room temp of 68-70 but it will take them a while to grow. Anybody have a good link for a side of the tank heater instead of bottom?
 
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mickiem

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So I am now hearing that you can keep them at a room temp of 68-70 but it will take them a while to grow. Anybody have a good link for a side of the tank heater instead of bottom?
I think short term drops in temp would be okay, but I wouldn't do it all winter long. I would strive for 75 and not let it drop under 72.

I think any under tank heater will still do the job as a side heater.
 

Ratmosphere

Arachnoking
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I really want to get this species and provide a good life for it, just very nervous about house fires. How long do you keep your heater on for?
 

mickiem

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24/7. Do you have glass or plastic? The small ones are made for either. I used a much larger one on particle board shelving and placed plastic seed trays on them. They stay on for about 10 weeks every spring. I've never had a problem. Honestly I wouldn't worry about a fire. Buy a UL listed unit that is made to use on your enclosure type. And check it daily. Look at reviews on Amazon. Buy the brands others have used.
 

Ratmosphere

Arachnoking
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I'm about to get a 10 gallon tank if I decide to get this species. Thanks for the help!
 
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