FlytrapCare Carnivorous Plant Forums

Hi All.

I'm planning on setting up a carnivorous plant terrarium using an old fish tank and I was wondering if you could give me some advice.

The tank I am going to use is a small 'Aquael' tank with a lid (example link coming shortly) as it contained a goldfish in it a few months ago.

My questions are:

1) how do I ensure airflow as the only hole is the feeding hatch in the lid and I don't have the money/skill to modify the tank further?

2)Is the 15watt T8 lihgt sufficient or do I need to replace the bulb with something more suitable?

3) I am intending to plant my Cape sundew in there once its fully restored to health (i nearly killed it a few weeks ago) do you have any noncarnivorous plant suggestions as my venus flytrap and Sarracenia Purpurea Venosa need dormncy?

Many thanks and kind regards Carl Wood.

PS: Here is the fishtank I have: https://www.ebay.co.uk/i/142637478372

I grow a lot of my CP in old aquariums.
Most of mine are 10 Gallon sized, just a little smaller than yours.
I do not cover the top of the tank.
I use an 4000-5000 lumen LED light shaped like an old 4 foot fluorescent light.
These produce more light and less heat than fluorescent fixtures.
The light just sits on top of the enclosure.
I also wrap the tank on 3 sides with aluminum foil to minimize light loss.
I leave the plants potted and keep 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch of water in the bottom of the tank.

Just my 02¢ worth.
Good growing
Mike

Hi Mike.

Just like to add that there are slits in the rear of the lid, would these also keep the terrarium open?

Also I'd like to emphasise the fact that I am unable to sit the lid on top of the tank the way you suggested as I don't have the supplies or the ability to do so.

I think you might inadequate air circulation with your setup.
You could grow CP that prefer conditions like that, 3 Queensland Sisters, tropical Utricularia, or some Nepenthes.

Nepenthes grows too tall for my space requirements (unless there are any ground based ones).

I might purchase a Drosera Adelae later along with another 'Queensland Sister'.

Is Drosera Adelae as easy to care for as a Drosera Capensis?

Is Drosera Adelae as easy to care for as a Drosera Capensis?

D. adelae is a set it and forget it plant.
Pop it in a terrarium and check the water once or twice a year.