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Bowls & Dishes

Our selection of water-holding herp stuff

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A Note Regarding Bowls, Dishes, and Water

The simple act of providing water has changed greatly over the years. In the late 90s & early 2000s, offering water often involved a simple bowl or mechanical dripper. Nowadays Misting Systems have become commonplace, recycling water features are relatively inexpensive, and other more creative methods are available. These simple additions can make a big difference in terms of both maintenance and quality of life for the animals we care for. Below, we'll briefly run-through our thoughts on the different methods available on the market.

Providing Water For Crested Geckos Providing Water For Chameleons Providing Water For Dart Frogs
Providing Water For Crested Geckos Providing Water For Dart Frogs

Methods For Providing Water Vary By Species

Every animal is different, and many species have very specific requirements for their water needs. Different animal specialists offer different opinions on which methods are suitable for each species, and more than one opinion can be correct. Some Crested Gecko experts insist on offering a cup of water, while others rely solely on misting for that purpose. Some Chameleon enthusiasts keep recirculating waterfalls in their enclosures, others depend on misting systems or drippers. Leopard Geckos will actively lap-up water from water bowls and from decor after misting sessions. Even then, individual animals often seem to have their own opinion on the matter! In our experience, some Geckos despise being misted, while others will lift their heads, lean back, and appear to enjoy a refreshing shower. No matter what species you are working with, it's important to do an appropriate amount of research before proceeding. If you aren't sure which method would work best for your goals, we recommend contacting us or reaching out to an expert in that particular species for advice.

Monkey Pod holding water Custom Terrarium Water Feature Neoregelias Holding Water In Terrarium

From right to left: Monkey Pod holding water, A custom water feature, and 4 Neoregelias holding water

Monkey Pod holding water Custom Terrarium Water Feature

Left: Monkey Pod holding water | Right A custom water feature

Water In Bioactive Terrariums (Basic)

If the animal species you are working with will lap up water from decor after a misting session, that's often the best method for most bioactive terrariums. The act of a thorough misting session can hydrate plants, microfauna, beneficial microbes/fungi in the substrate layer, and the animals all at once. The amount of misting will depend on your specific environmental requirements & terrarium specs. Sometimes natural wood decor (accent pods, plants, cork rounds, etc) can form natural pools of water for animals to drink from, too!

Monkey Pod holding water Custom Terrarium Water Feature

A paludarium with a water feature on display at NEHERP's showroom

Custom Water Features In Bioactive Terrariums

The amount of time & effort needed to build a water feature in a live vivarium correctly is comparatively immense compared to every other aspect of the build. For custom water features, we strongly recommend against using in-tank pumps/filters, large-drop water falls, and large open pools of (drainage layer) water. Each of these will cause drastically increased levels of maintenance, won't benefit the living environment, and is likely to contribute to its premature failure. A professionally built water feature would involve an external canister filter with an adjustable flow rate, no significant "drop" in water (to minimize even the slightest amount of splashing), and a flow of water which remains completely separate from the substrate layer. Unless your animal species requires a paludarium style environment, we almost always recommend against a custom water feature in live vivariums. A drop-in recirculating water fountain will often work better than most "custom" systems with in-tank pumps. Those are easy to remove for cleaning, won't splash too much, and the water remains separate from the rest of the enclosure.

Water In Standard (non-live) Terrariums

For animals outside of live vivarium environments, the act of providing water is pretty straightforward. We recommend following the advice of the breeder you supported when you purchased your animal(s). Standard terrariums often rely on basic water bowls, recirculating water fountains, drippers, or misting systems. As you'd imagine, offering water in a non-live terrarium is a comparatively simple issue to consider!

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Exo Terra Reptile Fountain

A recirculating water dish, perfect for picky drinkers!

Exo Terra Reptile Fountain
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
This is a great product for specific situations. Folks with Chameleons or other animals which prefer to drink from moving water will find this fountain to be particularly useful. It doesn't have a large open area of water, so animals seem to be less likely to use it as a bathroom. (We're lookin' at you, Bearded Dragons!) It's a little tough to get the pump situated at first, but once it's running, it's a nifty little way to provide moving water. Like many moving water features, we don't recommend running it 24/7. Hooking it up to a timer to run during specific times would be an acceptable practice which would extend pump life & keep pump vibration (however slight) to a minimum. We don't recommend this one for snakes (no soaking area), terrestrial Geckos (they may not see the water), or for animals which don't require moving water.
Manufacturer Description:
The Exo Terra Reptile Fountain is a unique water dish that supplies your reptiles and amphibians with a continuous supply of fresh, clean, aerated drinking water. Many reptiles do not recognize stagnant water as a source of drinking water. The Reptile Fountain’s constant movement of water tumbling down from the rock, encourages reptiles to drink more, keeping them healthy and hydrated. The continuously flowing water also raises humidity levels in the terrarium. The unit breaks down into three parts (shown above right) for easy cleaning.
$45.99/ea
On Sale Now!
20% Off!
$36.79/ea

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Exo Terra Rock Water Bowls

Our best selling water bowls, available in five sizes

Exo Terra X-Small Water Bowl For Bioactive Terrariums Exo Terra Small Water Bowl For Bioactive Terrariums Exo Terra Medium Water Bowl For Bioactive Terrariums Exo Terra Large Water Bowl For Bioactive Terrariums Exo Terra X-Large Water Bowl For Bioactive Terrariums
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
We sell more Exo Terra Rock Water Bowls than any other brand. These are significantly easier to clean than the "sanded stone" models these compete with. (No longer carried @ NEHERP) These are heavy enough to not tip, realistic enough for us vivarium nerds to tolerate, and inexpensive enough to not break the bank. In a live vivarium, these look best when sunk an inch or so into the substrate layer to bring the waters edge nearly flush with the surface.
Manufacturer Description:
Rock Water Dishes have a very natural and realistic rock finish on the outside and a smooth non-pitted surface on the inside. The bowls are coated to prevent the development of harmful bacteria and make it easy to clean. The neutral natural color allows easy integration in desert, tropical or any type of terrarium. Smaller reptiles, amphibians and insects can easily escape out of the Water Dish by the 'safety steps' inside the bowl to prevent drowning.
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$5.99/ea X-Small
This option sold out, others may be available

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X-Small - 2.5in X 2in X 1in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$6.99/ea Small
This option has sold out!

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Small - 3.5in X 3in X 1.5in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$8.99/ea Medium
This option has sold out!

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Medium - 5in X 4in X 1.5in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$16.49/ea Large
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Large - 8.5in X 7in X 2in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$20.99/ea X-Large
This option has sold out!

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X-Large - 10in X 9.5in X 2.5in

Lee's Mealworm Dish

A multi-use dish that comes apart for easy cleaning

Lee's Mealworm Dish
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
We know, we know. "Really, NEHERP? A $2 plastic bowl? Some vivarium specialists you are!" :-) Hate not, friends! Every insectivore-housing enclosure from newbie terrariums to museum exhibits will find these little things useful. These bowls feature curved edges, and are designed to prevent feeders from escaping and causing issues in a terrarium. By using an escape-resistant dish, the vivarium and its inhabitant(s) are less likely to run into trouble. We've used these with Mealworms, Waxworms, and Phoenix worms with success. The dish can usually keep 1-2 Superworms in-place too, but the record there isn't quite perfect. We also use them for feeding veggies, pelleted foods, Gecko diets, and more. The top splits from the bottom for easy cleaning along the curved edges, but clips together tightly enough to prevent stuff like Gecko diet from leaking out.
$2.29/ea

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3in Diameter X 5/8in Height (About 4oz)

Zoo Med Arboreal Feeder Cup

An effective and inexpensive feeder ledge solution

Zoo Med Arboreal Feeder Cup, Reptile Feeder Ledge Zoo Med Arboreal Feeder Cup, Reptile Feeder Ledge
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
It's all about the cups. Finding a feeder ledge which fits normal sized condiment/feeder cups is key, since ledges which fit ultra-specific and uncommon cups end up costing quite a bit more than they should over time. Zoo Med ledges fit our ultra-inexpensive standard-sized (~2.5in) 1.5oz and 2.0oz feeder cups. At NEHERP, we've tried all sorts of different ledges, but currently use more of these little Zoo Med ledges than any other brand. Not only are they inexpensive, they are also the easiest-to-clean option we've found. Since they are made from formed plastic rather than clear bent acrylic, they don't scratch as easily. We've popped the ledges (not the cups) in the dishwasher on a lower-heat cycle too, which makes feeding/cleaning larger numbers of Geckos a cinch without worrying about cross contamination. The suction cup stays attached to the glass while the ledge can be removed for cleaning, making for a quick & easy solution. At our shop, we install these on the door of a terrarium for simplicity.
Manufacturer Description:
Provides a naturalistic way to feed arboreal reptiles. Cup can be removed from ring for easily cleaning. Simple design blends into any decor. Directly attaches to a terrarium's glass with a suction cup. Includes two cups.
Arboreal Feeder Ledge
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$4.49-5.99/ea Feeder Ledge
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
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25% Off!
$5.99 $4.49/ea Zoo Med Feeder Ledge
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Zoo Med Feeder Ledge - 3.25in x 2.5in
Arboreal Feeder Ledge
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$0.03-0.08/ea 1.5oz Cup Only
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
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1.5oz Cup Only - Approximately 2.5in X 1in
Arboreal Feeder Ledge
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$0.03-0.08/ea 2.0oz Cup Only
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
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2.0oz Cup Only - Approximately 2.5in X 1.5in

Zoo Med Arboreal Feeding Platform

A more realistic feeder ledge solution

Zoo Med Arboreal Feeding Platform, Reptile Feeding Platform Zoo Med Arboreal Feeding Platform, Reptile Feeding Platform
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
This feeding platform has all of the benefits of the smaller version, with a far more realistic appearance. This style of ledge can be attached using either a strong suction cup clip, or with screws on screen or acrylic enclosures. (Both the stronger suction cup clip and screws are included!) Those who are creating a custom background can incorporate this ledge in a number of different ways. Don't hesitate to ask, if you aren't sure! Zoo Med ledges fit our ultra-inexpensive standard-sized (~2.5in) 1.5oz and 2.0oz feeder cups. The suction cup clip stays attached to the glass while the ledge can be removed for cleaning, making for a quick & easy solution.
Manufacturer Description:
Provides a naturalistic way to feed arboreal reptiles. Removable cup for easily cleaning. Includes suction cup and screws for mounting on glass or screen terrariums. Can also be attached to screen enclosures with screws.
Arboreal Feeding Platform
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$14.49-15.99/ea Feeding Platform
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
On Sale Now!
9% Off!
$14.49/ea Zoo Med Feeding Platform
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Zoo Med Feeding Platform - 3.25in x 2.5in
Arboreal Feeding Platform
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$0.03-0.08/ea 1.5oz Cup Only
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
This option sold out, others may be available

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1.5oz Cup Only - Approximately 2.5in X 1in
Arboreal Feeding Platform
1.5oz
Shallow Cup
(Replacements)
2.0oz
Deep Cup
(Replacements)
$0.03-0.08/ea 2.0oz Cup Only
See Volume Discounts In Cart!
This option has sold out!

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2.0oz Cup Only - Approximately 2.5in X 1.5in

Zoo Med Repti Rock Corner Water Bowls

Indestructible & easy to clean water bowls from Zoo Med

Zoo Med Repti Rock Corner Water Bowls
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
Zoo Med's Repti Rock line of water bowls were the first ones we sold at NEHERP. These are look a bit like rock, and are incredibly easy to clean. They are also incredibly durable and extremely easy to clean. Colors are assorted, but we only stock the neutral types shown in the photo above. (We don't carry the electric green, white, or bright color versions of these) Each water bowl has molded stairs to help smaller species enter & exit the water as desired. In a live vivarium, these look best when sunk an inch or so into the substrate layer to bring the waters edge nearly flush with the surface.
Manufacturer Description:
Virtually indestructible, smooth non-porous surface that won’t harbor bacteria. Available in assorted colors and sizes.
Small Large X-Large
$6.49/ea Small
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$5.52/ea Small
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Small: 1.75in x 5in x 5in
Small Large X-Large
$19.99/ea Large
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15% Off!
$16.99/ea Large
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Large: 3in x 9in x 9in
Small Large X-Large
$29.49/ea X-Large
On Sale Now!
15% Off!
$25.07/ea X-Large
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X-Large: 3.25in x 14in x 14in

Zoo Med Repti Rock Water Bowls

Indestructible & easy to clean water bowls from Zoo Med

Zoo Med Repti Rock Water Bowls
▾ Show Description ▾
NEHERP Staff Description:
Zoo Med's Repti Rock line of water bowls were the first ones we sold at NEHERP. These are look a bit like rock, and are incredibly easy to clean. They are also incredibly durable and extremely easy to clean. Colors are assorted, but we only stock the neutral types shown in the photo above. (We don't carry the electric green, white, or bright color versions of these) Each water bowl has molded stairs to help smaller species enter & exit the water as desired. In a live vivarium, these look best when sunk an inch or so into the substrate layer to bring the waters edge nearly flush with the surface.
Manufacturer Description:
Virtually indestructible, smooth non-porous surface that won’t harbor bacteria. Available in assorted colors and sizes.
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$4.49/ea X-Small
On Sale Now!
20% Off!
$3.59/ea X-Small
This option sold out, others may be available

Sold Out

X-Small - 5.5in X 5.5in X .75in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$5.49/ea Small
On Sale Now!
20% Off!
$4.39/ea Small
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Small - 5in X 5.5in X 1in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$8.49/ea Medium
On Sale Now!
15% Off!
$7.21/ea Medium
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Medium - 5.5in X 6.5in X 1.5in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$13.99/ea Large
On Sale Now!
10% Off!
$12.59/ea Large
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Large - 7in X 9in X 2.5in
X-Small Small Medium
Large X-Large
$17.49/ea X-Large
On Sale Now!
10% Off!
$15.74/ea X-Large
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X-Large - 8in X 11.5in X 2.5in

! Cheese Alert! !

Mainstream Reptile Waterfalls

Our staff took a vote, and the majority agree that most off-the-shelf enclosed Reptile Waterfalls are cheesy. While they can be visually appealing, most mainstream reptile waterfalls seem to be more trouble than they are worth. We haven't found one which doesn't have at least one flaw serious enough to preclude it's inclusion into our inventory.

Before using an off-the-shelf waterfall for your reptile or amphibian, we'd recommend checking public reviews and/or consulting an few enthusiast forum on social media. If your animal inhabitant doesn't require or directly benefit from the addition of a moving water feature, we'd strongly recommend not including one.

▾ Show More Info ▾

Things To Look Out For:
• Even minor splashing/flicking of water
• "Always On" LEDs which can be detrimental
• Difficult-to-clean pumps, tubing, & basins
• Tough-to-disassemble parts for cleaning
• Sharp edges, rough corners, pointy bits

While many of the above concerns are self-explanatory, the "slight splashing" aspect may be the most serious. If a water feature splashes water - even a tiny amount - and it runs constantly, that's a deal breaker for us. If an enclosed waterfall splashes/leaks out of it's own water basin even slightly, it's only a matter of time until it runs dry. That may not seem like a big deal, but most inexpensive water pumps will quickly burn out if they run dry. Beyond premature pump failure, slight splashing of water can make a swampy mess out of everything surrounding the water feature, which can lead to anaerobic soil/substrate conditions. Conditions like those can be harmful to animals and plants.

The "always on" aspects of some LEDs in waterfalls is a major drawback. While higher-end models offer the ability to turn off the LED(s), some brands force the light to run continuously while the pump is powered. That's bad for algae growth, may disrupt circadian rhythm, and looks a bit cheesy in our opinion.

Between algae growth, animal waste, stray substrate pieces, drowned feeder insects, and more - water features require frequent cleaning. Many mainstream brands make disassembly a cinch, but others can be problematic. Our advice is to ensure the whole unit can come apart for easy cleaning & routine sterilization. Models which don't come apart completely or have difficult-to-reach spots for cleaning aren't something we'd recommend.

Some ultra-cheesy water features are truly awful with sharp edges, rough corners, and even potentially "trapping" elements to them. If a model you are considering has any of these elements mentioned in online reviews while you are searching around, obviously avoid it. An animal's health and safety should come first.


Do you know of a reptile waterfall that isn't cheesy?
Let us know. We'd love to try it out and see if it'd be a good fit at NEHERP!
support@neherpetoculture.com


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