Considering buying a Zoo Med Naturalistic Terarium

[Paul Mc]

I am thinking about buying a Zoo Med Naturalistic Terrarium 12x12x18 or 18x18x24 for a collection of cool tolerant/intermediate mini orchids. I had originally thought I'd buy an exo-terra, but they are way expensive in comparison!

Does anyone see any downsides to using a Zoo Med Naturalistic Terrarium for orchids?

When I looked at it, the top was a screen mesh so I'm guessing based upon what I've been reading that I would need to remove the mesh and put glass or something similar on the top to hold in humidity.

The other issue I see is how do I get air movement if the top is covered? I'm hoping to maintain the temperature between 65 and 75 degrees in there and I'm not sure how to do that. I am currently using the smallest computer fan I could find for a 3 gallon tank which does have great airflow for that tank, but it probably would not be enough for a larger tank.

In relation to the last question, where are you supposed to put the fans?

Also, I do not have the slightest clue how I would custom build a mountain/forest type backwall for this. Any how to website information would be greatly appreciated. I need the terrarium to be as light as possible though.

I currently have an exo-terra fogger that I would put the hose on the top and let the fog roll down from the top. I am not currently thinking I would have a water feature, but that might change as I know bodies of water increase RH.

Has anyone used those computer cooling pads to cool a terrarium with any success? What about a tank the size I'm considering?