Microclimates in small Vivarium(s)

[Philsuma]

I just took a couple infared temperature gun readings (Pro Exotics hand help model: E2) with frickin' red lazer....

anyhoo....

A TINY Zoomed - 12" X 12" X 18"...or @ 11 Gallons, then minus the false bottom and heavily terraced substrate. Heavliy planted and directly under 4 T-12 commercial "plant / aquarium bulbs" that throw off a good bit of heat.

The tippy top leaves of Broms and upper "canopy" plants read: 85-86F in some places with an average of 81F

The lower substrate nears rock edges and under wood overhangs, sheltered from the light read: 77 - 75F

Ambiant Frog RoomTemps are @ 79F for that level that the vivs in question are situtated.

Interesting (at least to me).

[Cindy Dicken]

Phil,
is your light sitting directly on top of your tank?

[Philsuma]

no...lights are 4-5 inches above tank tops.

I'm actually ok with those 80F temps as they are only that hot for 4-6 hours a day and in the Spring time, until my summer A/C kicks in...

[Cindy Dicken]

Ok, gotcha.

[Philsuma]

In my room of rack systems....those tiny Exoterra's are almost soley for grow-out pumilio and some occasionally overflow.

The are also the highest from the ground (mainly because they are so small).

I have an ambiant Frog Room Temperature gradient of at least 10 degrees variation - from 6 foot ceiling to tiled floor.