Could I just use a tank designed for fish instead of reptiles?

[dakski]

I am not sure if you are asking two questions here, but I'll answer two.

1. IF you are dead set on a glass tank, and the reptile "version" is more expensive, there is no reason to go with that version (unless it comes with front opening doors - which you might like, heating equipment, latches to ensure the snake stays in, etc.).

2. Depending on the kind of snake, you might want to do as bcr229 says, and go PVC.

PVC tanks are:

-lighter
-better insulated and therefore retain heat and humidity better
-stackable (usually and if all same dimensions)
-More secure
-can get bigger sizes

If this is a BP, or other species that likes heat and humidity, it's the best option in the long-term, IMO.

If you are talking a colubrid, like a corn snake, king snake, etc. that doesn't require a ton of humidity or space AND you have a specialty clips and a special top to prevent escapes, etc. than a glass tank might work well.

It's not a right or wrong, it's really about species, size, requirements, and how much you want to have to modify/fiddle with the a glass tank to make it work for a species like a BP.

In my experience, and keeping mostly boas and pythons, I have large PVC tanks (Boaphile). I have had good experience, others here like AP. There are also other options if you plan to add your own heating equipment, like reptile basics.

I do have two corn snakes, but they live in the PVC tanks as well because they are all stacked. They don't need a 4X2' PVC tank (my smallest), but they use the room and it works with my setup. For what's worth, Figment, my hypo lavender corn, spent a large majority of his life in glass tanks.

If you need any clarification just ask.