Vivarium Troubleshooting

To disinfect plants in a vivarium, gently remove the plants and dip them in either a diluted hydrogen peroxide and water solution or a mixture of vinegar and water for about 30 seconds. Let the plants dry and then return them back to the vivarium. If you’re unable to remove them, use a misting spray to gently mist plants.

No, a drainage layer is not typically needed for a vivarium. However, it may be beneficial to add a layer of water–absorbing material beneath the substrate to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

To keep a vivarium humid, use a humidity gauge to monitor the humidity levels. Increase humidity levels by misting the vivarium with a spray bottle and placing water dishes, plants, live moss, and other moisture–holding elements inside. Install a humidifier inside the vivarium if needed to maintain humidity levels in warmer climates.

High humidity in a vivarium can be caused by inadequate ventilation, over–watering, or other environmental factors such as temperature and exposure to sunlight. To lower the humidity in the vivarium, ensure it has adequate ventilation, and water only as needed, and adjust other environmental factors as needed.

Bioactive tanks can sometimes have a slightly earthy smell if not cleaned properly, however generally speaking they should not have an unpleasant odor.

Yes, potting soil can be used in a vivarium, provided it has been sterilized. Before adding the soil to the vivarium, make sure it is thoroughly mixed with organic matter such as leaf litter and  peat moss. In addition, the soil should be treated with an insecticide or fungicide to ensure it is free from diseases and pests.

A vivarium should be thoroughly cleaned every 4–6 weeks or as needed. This includes spot-cleaning any surfaces and removing uneaten food or waste. As part of the cleaning process, you should also check the temperature, humidity, and filtration system and make any necessary changes.

Examples of suitable animals for a bioactive vivarium include many species of reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates such as bearded dragons, leopard geckos, kingsnakes, corn snakes, dart frogs, tree frogs, chameleons, box turtles, and tortoises. Invertebrates including African giant millipedes, land hermit crabs, and many species of insects and spiders are also appropriate.

No, bugs are not necessary for a vivarium. Certain species of reptiles, amphibians, and other animals that live in vivariums may need insects as part of their diets, but they are not necessary for the vivarium itself.

The word “vivarium“ comes from Latin, meaning “place of life“, referring to a place to keep or study living organisms. It is used to refer to terrariums, aquariums, and other enclosures used to keep and observe plants and animals, oftentimes in a semi–natural habitat.

A vivarium typically consists of a number of components, including substrate (bedding material such as sand or soil), ornaments (rocks, driftwood, and other decorations), plants, and any other necessary items to maintain the vivarium environment. Depending on the type of animals living in the vivarium, certain items such as heat mats, lights, and food containers may also be needed.

The main difference between a vivarium and a terrarium is that a vivarium is used to house living animals, whereas a terrarium is primarily used to house plants. Vivariums typically include a heating and cooling system, while terrariums may not. Additionally, while terrariums can often be made with any type of container, the walls of a vivarium need to be quite thick to provide temperature regulation and maintain the correct environment for the animals living inside.

A vivarium may house a variety of different living organisms, depending on the type of vivarium and the animals kept inside. Common vivarium inhabitants include reptiles, amphibians, and other small animals, such as turtles, lizards, frogs, and snakes. In some cases, fish, birds, and invertebrates may also be kept in various types f vivariums.

A vivarium is an enclosed area, typically made of glass or other transparent material, used to keep and observe animals, plants, and/or other organisms. Commonly used for reptiles and other animals, vivariums can also be designed to grow plants in a controlled environment.