ScubaTalonAWD's 40 Breeder Firebelly Toad Vivarium Build

[ScubaTalonAWD]

To continue, I cut the screen, and layed it in the gap I left in the front. I used gravel to hold it down.



I then began laying gravel down along all the edges, and cut the screen down to size.



I then finished placing all the gravel. The gravel I used is 3/8" river rock from a local landscaping yard btw. Much cheaper than aquarium gravel!



I then filled it with water.



Lastly, I powered up the filter/waterfall.



Unfortunately, to get the filter to prime, I had to fill the tank with about 1/2" more water than I intended. I will have to figure something out to leave enough room to avoid the coco husk from sopping up to much water and getting drenched.

All in all though, I am excited to be almost ready for the toads!

[ScubaTalonAWD]

The inside is now complete!

I drained 1/2" of water out, and the filter kept it's prime with no issues. I think the internal pump just needed to relieve an air pocket. I actually drained it down about an inch just to check what would happen after a little evaporation, and it still ran just fine.

Next I added the coconut fiber. I have a little over 1inch. I was surprised when I used an entire 7 quart block of it. I thought I would only need about half.



Next I added river rock to the top. This is intended to prevent the toads from picking up the coco fiber and spreading it into the water. When I add plants I will allow the stem to go in between the spaces between rocks.







As you can see, the water has turned into tea right now. The filter is empty at the moment. I just wanted to circulate water with it. I am hoping that once a cartridge is added, the water will clear up. If not, I am sure a few water changes and time for the coco to release everything will make things better.

Next, plants and the canopy!

[Badger]

Nice! looks awesome, Plants will make it look even better. Especially water plants