Tank tops. How much ventillation is really needed?

[VooDooDoc]

I have a 20 gal tank with one of them metal screen mesh type lids. Do I really need all of that ventilation or can I cover up some of the top to help hold in heat/humidity.

[kitedemon]

You can cover some but be careful humidity and low ventilation are well documented to be a cause of respiratory issues. I'd never suggest covering more than 1/3-1/2 the top and leave space on either front back or side to side not just one side. Top openings are very poor for air flow and have dead spots on the corners.

[Orijin0XazN]

Tank tops. Thought you meant the clothing. Lol

[kitedemon]

A idea that might also be of use...

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...arium-Solution

[VooDooDoc]

I was thinking about covering the middle of the top. Leaving a few inches all around.

Temp and humidity are easy to measure, but air flow is bit more tricky.

You said humidity and low ventilation is a documented cause of respiratory infections. Do you mean being too humid, or not humid enough?

[VooDooDoc]

A idea that might also be of use...

http://ball-pythons.net/forums/showt...arium-Solution

Hmm, that is a neat idea. I might have to try something like that.

[Rusky]

Hmm, that is a neat idea. I might have to try something like that.

Made that lid, it works...too well lol.
When I first made it my humidity shot up to over 90%. Currently I have 32 holes, 16 on top and 16 on bottom and it rests at 60%.

[kitedemon]

basically either and low ventilation the problem is the low ventilation think of it this way. Low air flow, warm humid conditions = petri dish. It is the perfect bacteria growing conditions. A system should never smell like a basement or musty mouldy.

Rusty I am glad you have it balanced now!

[Rusky]

Why does everyone always see my name a Rusty lol :'(. I'm not covered in rust, i am Rusky, hear me roar.

[kitedemon]

Read too fast... sorry Rusky