cheers for all of the info so far you've all been really helpful. i have been given this viv by a friend now but he has sold all of the fixtures and fittings to go with and as for the ahs heater it is designed for vivs of this size so i reckon i will be giving it a try and if anyone else can name any other essentials that i will need for a new bp then please do not hessitate to let me know. the snake itself is a little over 2 ft and is a normal and feeds well but not sure of the age as the owner is not 100% sure himself.