Mini Rainforest

[Sabatta]

After reading up on possible oxygen defficencies for captive T Blondis and the associated health problems, as well as being inspired by other terrarium builders, I decided to have a go at building a living terrarium for one of my own. I tried to combine looks with functionality. But, aside from the aesthetics, does anyone think the plants are of tangible benefit? There is a 6x3 inch gap at the top for ventilation. Will that destroy any possibility of a beneficial oxygen concentration in the tank? I'd love to buy an oxygen meter but they're over $1000.00 so I hope someone here can offer their opinion on it. Thanks.

 

[seanbond]

great setup! very natural!

 

[syndicate]

how deep is the substrate?i dont see a hide for her in there.it looks quite nice with the plants but your spider may decide to bulldoze them :/

 

[Sabatta]

Thanks for the compliments. Yeah, there is no hide because I've had problems with mold on the wood. But there is a plant that she sits under and it shades her (the one on the left with yellow trim). And she is surprisingly gentle with the plants. She goes slowly and finds her way through without pushing anything around so I'm not too worried about her "uprooting" my efforts.

Does anyone think that the plants will increase the oxygen levels in the tank? Or is it too difficult to assess without taking a reading?