Cut from the "File Snakes For Sale" thread

[sxc_celly]

How are they to handle?

[hornet]

they are more a look dont touch snake

[sxc_celly]

Hmm... I can see why many people arent after them now lol. What size enclosure minimum as adult? Ill have a think, i think

[Adandiluvsmyreptiles]

They stress pretty easy sxc....best not to handle them.
http://www.freewebs.com/reptilesanda...filesnakes.htm
That being said though...they are awesome snakes. And i think if you are after one you should start with a young one like Alumba has for offer. You don't see them for sale too often so if i was you i would be taking advantage

i wanted to add that just because you can't handle them often PLEASE don't let it deter you. Do the research and grab one off alumba. He'll be able to help you out with enclosure etc and let you know how he's been caring for them but they are just so fascinating and not kept too much in captivity which makes them a little more special IMO.

[Wrasse]

ARGH....

Stop torturing me Alumba

[hornet]

for an adult minimum 6ft preferably and 8ft tank

[sxc_celly]

So how would i go about setting up a tank for them? They need to obviously have a good filter system to keep water quality up, but cant have noise or alot of water motion. How on earth is this achieved??! Obviously they are able to be handled when and if you ever need to move or clean the tank?

[hornet]

a good sized canister filter with a spray bar will give you what you need

[Adandiluvsmyreptiles]

Mine do fine with the filter system. Noise and water motion isnt an issue provided you have the right size filter for your tank. They are able to be handled...they just dont like it too much and prefer the water lol.

Talk to alumba about how he has his bubs set up so you can simulate how they have already been living.

[Wrasse]

I use a canister filter, stored under the tank and have the spray bar underwater to reduce noise. I also turn the spray bar towards the glass to reduce water flow.

Arafura are typically found in dark water with slow flow and over time, high water flow and noise can cause stress. I have kept the odd filesnake that doesn't seem to mind bright busy conditions, but overall, I find they thrive better with less water movement, less bubble and water noise, lots of hides and tannin dark water.

[alumba]

good

[alumba]

i use a canister filter and have it set up the way wrasse has pretty much i keep my female in a 6 foot tank and she is doing well. with this species of snake you dont really need to handle them that much because just looking at them in the water is enough they are truly fasanating i love them. i cant beleave im doin this but i will drop the price to $200 each or $175 if u buy 2 or more but u's have to fit the freight thats the best i can do

cheers Matt

[Wrasse]

ARGH !!!

If I didn't already have fileys, I would snap some up. I would love to have babies again. Such beautiful little faces.

As Alumba pointed out, handling is not required. Indeed, these snakes are not made to be out of the water, their bones, muscle structure and internal organs are meant to be supported by H20.

Having said that, they can survive for a while out of the water if required.

I get the best enjoyment out of mine with a soft nightlight on them, when sitting in the lounge at night, watching TV or on the computer. They come out to explore, look around and hunt. And they flick those gorgeous long tounges at you in such a lazy laid back way. A happy 'fura is a very relaxing animal to watch, as they slowly move around and check nooks and crannies out. Yet they have a real turn of speed on them when they touch and snap up a fish!!

[sxc_celly]

I think i want some, but im still not sure. Im still thinking. Anymore personal experience. info etc would help out a great deal to aid my decision. Thanks

[Wrasse]

Originally Posted by sxc_celly

I think i want some, but im still not sure. Im still thinking. Anymore personal experience. info etc would help out a great deal to aid my decision. Thanks

You have to ask the questions. Can't answer without knowing what you are concerned about.