The tank vs. tub debate is a hot topic in the reptile community. Some within the community strive for enrichment filled tanks, while others push more towards the minimalistic tubs. So which is better? Well let's go through it all!
TANKS
Tanks are possibly the most popular housing option for reptiles, especially for ball pythons and other snakes. they are aesthetically pleasing for us, and with the proper enrichment, a naturalistic environment can be created for the species you own. They offer a nice visual appearance of your reptile(s), and can give more than enough space for most "smaller" species.
There are a few complications that could arise when using tanks. Due to most glass tanks having mesh lids, humidity and temperature levels may struggle, the mesh lids easily allow moisture and heat to escape quickly. Tanks can be a great option for species that do not require high humidity levels, and foil tape can be used to insulate the heat to keep it from escaping through the mesh lid. For high humidity species though, you struggle keeping consistent humidity, especially if you live in a dry and cool climate. For example, I tried to house my first ball python in a 30 gallon glass tank, and due to my home's temperature being 67 degrees and humidity levels of 15% or lower, it was quite impossible, regardless of the tricks I tried. If you happen to live in a warmer climate with better humidity levels, it could be a lot easier to hold humidity in a glass tank. Glass tanks also take up more space and can put quite the dent in your bank account. You can only hold so many glass tanks in one area before you ultimately run out of room, and the average price for glass tanks run from $65 up to $150+. If you are planning on owning more than one reptile, glass tanks might not be the most cost effective way to house your reptiles, and you will have to utilize a lot more space for multiple tanks. Overall, tanks CAN work, they just might take some extra effort and tweaking to get things stable before you can safely house a reptile in one.
TUBS
Tubs are frowned upon by some, but favorited by many for some pretty obvious reasons, especially when it comes to reptiles who require higher humidity levels. Tubs are an effective way to hold humidity and proper temperature gradients with little to no effort.
When set up correctly, they offer the perfect amount of space needed for reptiles, and provide the security for reptiles to feel safe and less stressed by a larger environment. The average cost for tubs in my area ranges from $4 up to $8, which goes to show they're very cost effective if you are on a budget, and their size allows you to hold multiple tubs in one area, I built a shelf for $60 total that can hold twelve 16-18qt tubs, or 6 28-32qt tubs. It is a very effective way to house multiple reptiles, without taking up much space. A big misconception many have is that tubs don't provide proper enrichment for a snake, which is NOT true. Many people within the community love to decorate tubs, just as much as people like to decorate tanks. Choosing to house your reptile in a tub does not mean you only provide one single hide and a water bowl on top of some paper towels, some people choose to do that, but you do not HAVE to do it that way.
Tubs do have their cons though, but not very many. The biggest con to tubs, is that they don't allow the visual opportunity that tanks do. Many people buy reptiles so they are able to view them whenever they please, but that can be an issue. As I always say, Seeing your snake 24/7, should NEVER be more important than the husbandry and health of your reptile.
WRAP UP
This post could have been a lot longer with more examples and pros and cons, but I'll keep it simple and sweet. Both tubs and tanks can be used efficiently for reptiles, if you put the time and effort into whichever you choose. I use tubs for my reptiles that require high humidity, and tanks for the ones who do not require that much, and both are working great for the reptile's specific requirements, so I still remain undecided on this debate.
What do you think? Are you #Protank or #Protub? Maybe both like me?! Feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts and opinions!
**TIP: Do your research and trouble shoot whatever housing option you choose BEFORE you purchase your new reptile. This will ensure the husbandry is spot on without the risk of immediate stress due to incorrect husbandry! DO NOT wait to set up your reptile's enclosure the same day you purchase.
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