Terrarium / Formicarium Arena 45x25x25cm

thingiverse

This is a compact terrarium with dimensions approximately 450x250x250 mm, designed primarily as an ant arena but potentially suitable for other small animals. I created this design to provide an affordable and customizable alternative to commercial glass terrariums, which are often expensive and less adaptable when it comes to adding connectors and other features required for larger ant colonies. I'm a fan of robust designs, and after experiencing colony outbreaks, I aimed to create a terrarium with multiple layers of protection. To achieve this, I ensured that all possible gaps are covered at least once by another part, and the screws tightening the entire structure are close together. For small ants or animals, a bit of animal-friendly silicone can be used to further secure everything in place. The design offers a straightforward framework for building the terrarium, which is easy to follow. It also includes plans for strong tube connectors of varying sizes, ranging from dual-6mm (outer diameter) to 20mm (outer diameter). Each connector comes with a counter-plate to secure unused ones and small "stairs" that facilitate ant access. These stairs are particularly useful for species like Messor barbarus, which are poor climbers and tend to fall when trying to reach the connectors. Additionally, the design includes plans for top vent openings that can be used in conjunction with a filter inlay, such as metal weave, to provide air circulation without creating an easy outbreak source. The materials required include: Acrylic glass plates (4mm thick): - 2pcs 450x250mm (Top and Bottom) - 2pcs 250x250mm (Short Sides) - 2pcs 442x250mm (Long Sides) Screws, washers, and nuts: - M3x14 - M3x20 To achieve a complete frame, print the frame sets according to the number in parentheses. For example, "(x1)" means printing one set, while "(x2)" indicates printing two sets. Additional materials needed include: - Animal-safe silicone (such as aquarium silicone) - Filter material for top vents (e.g., 100 micron metal weave) Tools required include: - A 3mm drill - A step drill up to 30mm in diameter - A small file, depending on the accuracy of the print Notes and recommendations: * I usually start by building the bottom frame, placing the bottom acrylic glass plate, and then proceed from there. * Remove protective plastic from the acrylic glass at the final stages, after all holes are drilled and parts fit together without needing further polishing. Apply silicone just before everything is screwed together tightly. * Avoid tightening screws too hard, especially when using a power tool. Instead, use a manual screwdriver for the final tightening to prevent acrylic glass cracking. Use washers for added protection. * If keeping larger animals, some gap cover plates might not be necessary, but this could compromise the overall stability. * This is not an aquarium and should not be used with water. Even without leakage, water pressure would be too great. * Avoid using it as an ant nest or adding heavy terrarium interior. I've tested a few kilograms and found it to hold well. * The cost of self-building this terrarium (including filament, acrylic glass, screws/washers/nuts, power, etc.) should be approximately 35-40% of what a comparable commercial ant arena costs on the market. Disclaimer: As always, I cannot be held responsible for any issues resulting from using this design or following these instructions. Use at your own risk.