This review dives into the Oiibo Knock-Down Glass Terrarium, assessing its suitability for arboreal geckos. The author, needing a larger enclosure for their growing collection of crested, gargoyle, and arboreal geckos, found standard options lacking in height and depth. After exploring custom-built and other pre-made terrariums, they opted for the Oiibo, drawn to its sleek design, customizable options, and impressive dimensions of 24x18x36 inches. This review details the assembly process, highlighting both its ease and potential pitfalls, as well as the terrarium's overall sturdiness and functionality.The author focuses on the terrarium's practicality for arboreal species, discussing features like the full-glass panels for humidity control, pre-drilled wire holes for a misting system, and secure double doors. The review evaluates the terrarium's weight and stability, addressing potential challenges like transportation and placement. Ultimately, this comprehensive review offers valuable insights for reptile keepers considering the Oiibo Knock-Down Glass Terrarium, weighing its pros and cons to determine if it’s the right choice for their specific needs.
Pros And Cons
- Came in excellent condition, no damage.
- Easy to assemble.
- Customizable: options for full screen, partial screen, or all glass sides.
- Screen top allows for installation of lighting and misting system.
- Includes wire holes with covers.
- Sturdy enough to be moved upstairs.
- Aesthetically pleasing (white color).
- Keys have suction cups for easy storage.
- Heavy.
- Requires careful assembly to ensure all pieces are aligned correctly.
- Labels on glass pieces and doors are small and easy to miss.
- Difficult to remove the wire hole covers.
Read more: Top 5 Turtle Terrariums: Reptile Habitats Reviewed
The Search for the Perfect Enclosure
My arboreal geckos, Pip, Potato, and Tula, along with my crested and gargoyle geckos, needed an upgrade from their 20-gallon long tanks. I desired a taller, deeper enclosure, ideally 30-36 inches tall and more than 12 inches deep, offering ample space for climbing and exploration. Existing options were either too short or not wide enough.
Many standard 18x18x24 inch enclosures weren't tall enough for adult geckos. I wanted something significantly taller, providing ample vertical space. The goal was a spacious habitat, not just a box.
I initially considered a custom PVC enclosure but my local Home Depot stopped carrying the necessary materials. Custom building was cost-prohibitive, leading me to explore pre-made options like Exoterra terrariums or glass tanks.
Discovering the Oiibo Knock Down Enclosure
My search shifted from focusing on crested gecko-specific tanks to prioritizing size. I looked for enclosures around 18x18x36 inches or similar dimensions. I came across the Oiibo knock-down enclosures on Amazon.
These white glass enclosures resembled Exoterras but in a sleek white design, fitting my aesthetic preference. A 24x18x36 inch option caught my eye; slightly longer than initially planned, but bigger was better.
The knock-down design meant it arrived in multiple pieces for assembly and easy disassembly. I planned on building a naturalistic background which would test its sturdiness.
Assembly and Initial Impressions
The enclosure arrived in perfect condition; no broken glass, scratches, or damage. Assembly was straightforward, though I made initial mistakes with the corner posts and glass panels, needing to partially disassemble and reassemble a few times.
Ensure the corner posts are screwed in correctly for even alignment. Pay attention to the labels on the glass panels (left/right) to avoid misalignment, as the instructions don't explicitly mention this for all parts.
Despite my initial errors, the assembly process was easy and manageable for a solo project. The total assembly time would have been shorter with proper alignment from the beginning.
Features and Customization
The Oiibo enclosures offer customizable options for the side panels, using either full screen, partial screen, or full glass. I chose full glass for higher humidity needs. A screen top is included, allowing for lighting installations (overhead heat, UVB, plant lights).
Pre-drilled wire holes with locking covers facilitate installing a misting system; an essential feature for my arboreal geckos. Although the covers are a little difficult to remove, they prevent escapes.
The double doors with lockable keys and small suction cups on the keys were a nice touch. I wish the keys could be left in the locks for easy access.
Sturdiness and Final Verdict
Transporting the assembled terrarium upstairs was a two-person job, highlighting its weight. However, once assembled, the enclosure proved remarkably sturdy considering its knock-down design. It survived the move without damage.
Despite its size and weight, the enclosure is quite stable and secure, especially on a stable shelf. The height (nearly touching the ceiling) limited my overhead lighting options initially, but it didn’t impede functionality.
Overall, I'm extremely happy with the Oiibo Knock Down Glass Terrarium. The aesthetic appeal, customization, and sturdiness make it a worthwhile investment. I'd recommend these enclosures for arboreal animals.