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How do I Choose the Best Iguana Tank?

J. Stuchlik
J. Stuchlik

Choosing an iguana tank can be very difficult. Many different kinds of tanks or cages might seem appropriate for a pet iguana, but there are a number of associated complications that come with the choice of an iguana as a pet. For this reason, there are a number of factors that must be considered when choosing an iguana tank. In order of importance, these are size, heating, lighting and humidity. Keeping these things in mind will make choosing the best iguana tank much easier.

Size is the first and most important thing to consider when choosing an iguana tank. Many of the other aspects of the iguana's home can be easily changed or moved from home to home, but the physical size of the iguana's tank will be with it for some time. A rough estimate for a tank's minimum size is that it should be six times longer than the pet and three times taller.

Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

To be able to keep up with the growth of a pet iguana, it is important to make sure that the tank is larger than needed for the iguana's current size. A baby iguana might begin at less than a foot in length, but a full grown iguana can be longer than 6 feet. An iguana's growth will be most rapid in the first three years of its life, so the best iguana tank will be as large as possible. If a big tank is not affordable, be sure to save for a larger tank as the iguana grows, so that its home can maintain at least the minimum dimensions.

An iguana's growth will be most rapid in the first three years of its life, so the best iguana tank will be as large as possible.
An iguana's growth will be most rapid in the first three years of its life, so the best iguana tank will be as large as possible.

Heat and lighting are the next most important parts of an iguana tank. An iguana needs its tanks temperature to stay about 84 degrees Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) during the day and 78 degrees Fahrenheit (26 degrees Celsius) at night. It is ideal to have a place for the iguana to bask, such as a heat rock, and it should stay a constant 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). Most of the heat for an iguana's tank can come from external or floor heating, but it also is important to include lights that produce ultraviolet B (UVB) light that is necessary for the iguana to synthesize vitamin D.

Finally, an iguana's tank must keep a high level of humidity. Iguanas drink very little water, so most of their hydration is absorbed through the skin. To keep an iguana from becoming dehydrated, its tank should maintain a humidity level between 75 percent and 80 percent. A humidity gauge should be kept in the tank to monitor humidity levels. Humidity can be achieved by spraying mist into the tank a few times a day, by placing an air bubbler in the iguana's water or by placing a humidifier near the tank.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size tank is best for an iguana?

An adult iguana requires a tank that is at least twice its length in both width and height, with a recommended size of 12 feet long, 6 feet wide, and 6 feet high. Juveniles can start in smaller enclosures, but they grow quickly, necessitating upgrades over time. Spacious environments are crucial for their physical and mental health.

What materials should an iguana tank be made of?

Glass is a common choice for smaller iguana enclosures due to its transparency and ease of cleaning. However, for larger, adult iguanas, custom-built wooden enclosures with glass or plexiglass windows are often recommended. These materials provide better insulation and support the substantial size and strength of a fully-grown iguana.

How do I maintain the right temperature and humidity in an iguana tank?

Iguanas require a basking spot of about 95°F and ambient temperatures ranging from 75-85°F. Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 70°F. Humidity should be maintained between 65-75%. Use thermostats, thermometers, and hygrometers to monitor conditions. Ceramic heaters, basking bulbs, and humidifiers can help maintain these parameters.

What kind of lighting is necessary for an iguana tank?

Iguanas need 10-12 hours of UVB light daily to synthesize vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Use a high-quality UVB bulb that covers at least half the length of the tank, and replace it every 6 months to ensure its effectiveness, as UVB output diminishes over time.

How often should I clean my iguana's tank, and what's involved?

Clean your iguana's tank weekly to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. This involves removing and disinfecting decorations, changing substrate if used, and wiping down surfaces with a reptile-safe cleaner. Daily spot cleaning is also necessary to remove feces and uneaten food to maintain a hygienic environment.

What features should I include inside an iguana tank for enrichment?

Include branches for climbing, a variety of perches, and hiding spots to mimic an iguana's natural habitat and encourage natural behaviors. Ensure the tank has a gradient of temperatures and light levels. Providing a water dish large enough for soaking is also beneficial for hydration and skin health.

Discussion Comments

anon201403

Never use heat rocks! I cannot stress enough how important it is to not use heat rocks. Heat rocks will burn through the skin of your igs because they lack large numbers of nerves on their belly. Unless you put lots of layers or covering over the heat rock, I strongly advise you not even look or consider using a heat rock, for all reptiles.

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    • Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
      By: vladischern
      Iguanas require heat lamps, which use a variety of incandescent bulb that keeps their environment between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
    • An iguana's growth will be most rapid in the first three years of its life, so the best iguana tank will be as large as possible.
      By: loiren
      An iguana's growth will be most rapid in the first three years of its life, so the best iguana tank will be as large as possible.