Exo Terra's new range goes back in time!
Part of the fun of setting up a planted vivarium today is that
you can now grow a wide range of living plants in these
surroundings quite easily, creating the impression of a tropical jungle,
but up until now, the choice of backgrounds has unfortunately been
very limited.
The backdrop is a vital part of the overall design of the
set-up though, because it effectively frames the planting and other decor
in front. It also adds a sense of depth and perspective, drawing the eye to
the rear of the enclosure.
It isn't often that significant advances occur in terms of vivarium
design, and this is what helps to make the introduction of Exo Terra®'s
new Aztec Terrarium range so exciting.
There's plenty of flexibility here as well. You can purchase the entire Aztec Terrarium in two
different sizes, and also buy further items separately as well. The Mini/Tall design in this range measures
30x30x45cm (12x12x18in) while the Small/Tall unit is larger, being 45x45x60cm (18x18x24in) overall,
with the unique backgrounds helping to providing more space for tree-dwelling occupants.
The source of the inspiration
The vivarium background has been inspired by the astonishing art and impressive relics that were left
behind by pre-Columbian cultures in what is now Central America.
Over the course of barely 200 years, the Aztec empire grew from just a nomadic tribe to the ruling empire
in the valley of Mexico and beyond.
The legend goes that the place where the Aztecs built their capital was indicated by a sign of the gods:
an eagle perched on top of a cactus, holding a snake. Aztec culture was strongly
connected to nature, attributing supernatural powers to several
animals.
The snake played an important role, representing fertility
and abundance. Frogs, toads and amphibians in general symbolised earth and rain and were associated
with water, fertility and agriculture.
On the other hand, eagles were considered supreme aerial predators:
fearless, brave and daring. Religion was a vital aspect of Aztec culture
and was characterised by a whole range of deities. To honour these
gods, they raised impressive statues, created stunning relics and built magnificent temples.
A wide range of options
Exo Terra®'s Aztec Range allows
you to create a mystical ancient
Mesoamerican landscape
(corresponding to a large area of
today's Central America from Mexico
southwards) in your enclosure.
The
Aztec Terrariums and their associated
components are inspired by the
astonishing art and impressive
remains that were left behind by
pre-Columbian cultures.
You can
revive and admire the magnificence
of this lost civilisation in miniature by
decorating your terrarium with one
or more of the functional Exo Terra®
Aztec items!
These objects are ideal in setups for a wide range of reptiles,
amphibians and invertebrates, and
they can be themed with a host
of different species too, including
many that originate from the same
part of the world where the Aztec
empire existed.
These could range
from tropical planted set-ups for
species such as the Central American
banded gecko
(Coleonyx mitratus)
and various dart frogs, right through
to more arid accommodation for
the Mexican red-legged tarantula
(Brachipelma smithi).
All available now!
Look out for this major new product range in reptile retailers. The displays are mounted on very striking
Sacrificial Stone bases, which feature the Calendar Stone or “Stone of
the sun” which the Aztecs believed charted their destiny.
This Sacrificial Stone can be be placed vertically or horizontally and can thus hold the
Natural Terrarium Small/Tall unit in the vertical position or the horizontal
45x60cm (18x24in) configuration.Among the individual items is Exo Terra®'s Aztec Sacred Maize Waterfall
that fits the ancient Mesoamerican Aztec theme perfectly.
The cascading water here stimulates the natural drinking behaviour of various
lizards and cleaning is easy, as the waterfall can be dismantled into two parts. A pump is included to provide
water circulation.
There are other drinking options available too, ensuring the presence of clean and fresh water
in the enclosure. The shape of the Aztec Frog Water Dish is especially designed to prevent it from being
tipped over, and to avoid spilling water. It has a 40ml capacity.
This feature also applies to the Aztec Water Dish, which is easy to clean, and the smooth non-porous surface will
not absorb harmful bacteria. It is available in two sizes - small and medium - with respective
capacities of 15 and 120ml respectively.
The Aztec Eagle Knight Hide ensures that your animals have a secure
hiding place that will support thermo-regulation and hydration.
A proper hiding area is an essential feature of all terrariums. There are also two sizes
of the Calendar Stone Hide-out as well, ensuring that your animals have secure hiding places that will
support thermo-regulation and hydration.
The range of decorative items associated with the Aztec Terrariums.
You can create a Lost
World impact, by combing these items, adding extra interest to the design of the enclosure.
All photos courtesy Rolf C. Hagen except strawberry dart frog (Dirk Ercken / www.shutterstock.com).
* For further information please contact Rolf C. Hagen UK Ltd on 01977 556622 or visit their website at
exo-terra.com