Trans-pecos eating insects?

[Bogertophis]

Sand isn't all that good to keep snakes on, as it has microscopic sharp edges that can cause skin infections when it gets pushed under their scales & cuts into their skin, allowing the bacteria to enter. I know you're using a mix, & certainly they live on a mix in the real world also- so hopefully that will work. The difference is that more germs get trapped in cages & they don't get baked away in the desert sun.

Of all the snakes I've ever kept, Trans Pecos are by FAR the most 'respectful' of their cage set-ups, and they enjoy climbing on some branches too, which they do gracefully. I can picture them climbing on your plants however, if they don't have branches. They have a quiet mellowness about them, but they're nosy too, & good eaters. Just very pleasant snakes, with those adorable big eyes. Yes, gopher snakes are more apt to burrow & up-end your plants. They are pushy, but TPs are not. It's like they were taught "manners" or something...they're different from most snakes. A corn snake would also be a better option than a gopher snake in this situation.

I don't picture any of these snakes wanting to eat your beetles, though I stop short of a guarantee. BUT...what do the beetles eat? Some insects (like crickets) have been known to chew on snakes in a cage. It's not the same thing as being in the wild, where they can easily avoid each other. And another potential problem is Trans Pecos rat snakes are nocturnal, & they won't appreciate your bright plant lights. Personally, I wouldn't do this for that reason, besides not trusting the beetles not to chew on the snake. Bright lights hurt their eyes & will stress a TP unless they have very deep hides for darkness, & lights are ONLY on during the day?

A new 10 gal. tank won't cost much, & considering that used tanks need a LOT of disinfection to make sure that whatever a previous occupant might have died of doesn't get passed along to your new pet, I'd just get a new 10 gal. for the time being. The chain pet stores regularly have $1 per gallon sales. I don't recommend using tubs for TPs either- due to the humidity/air restriction. My TPs are never sick...so I can only suggest you stick with glass tanks & screen tops, as I know that works for them & why. An tank that's 18" tall is just fine for a TP, btw.