-
In the realm of terrarium, vivarium or aquarium building for captive reptiles and amphibians, there seem to be two extremes: The sterile, practical, simplistic enclosure, and the naturalistic recreation of the animal's habitat. The first category, sterile habitats, consists of enclosures that contain the bare basics, and usually inorganic (or at least not living) cage furniture: Paper towel substrate, plastic rock hide caves, perhaps a few sterilized rocks and/or branches. They're usually a simple container, such as a glass aquarium or a plastic storage box. Naturalistic enclosures, however, are much more complex. They involve re-creating a miniature ecosystem, or at least something quite similar, with live plants, read wood, real rocks, and a natural substrate, all set up to provide the animal with what it needs.
If with both types of enclosure you can provide the basics: Proper heating and lighting, hide spots, and climbing or burrowing medium (whichever is applicable to the species you're keeping), then what advantages does one have over the other?
Sterile enclosures are generally much easier to clean and disinfect. Almost everything in the terrarium is either bleachable or bake-able, including the enclosure itself, when disinfection is required. Substrate is usually the "sheet" type (such as newspaper or indoor/outdoor carpeting), and is easily replaced or cleaned. They are usually quite cost-efficient, which is a definite plus if you are maintaining a large collection.
However, naturalistic enclosures also have their advantages. Aside from the potential to be very attractive, miniature ecosystems in your home, they are often very successful with reptile and amphibian pets. Not only are they full of natural, environmental enrichment, but also a naturalistic habitat is necessary for many of the more difficult-to-keep species to be healthy and to breed. One downside is that they may take more work to clean and maintain.
Your animal's enclosure does not have rest at either extreme. A certain mix of simple and naturalistic can create a very comfortable home for your pet reptile or amphibian. For example, you do not want to include dangers that would be found in the animal's natural habitat, such as predators or unnecessary competitors for food, heat, hides and mates. Captivity is not the same as in the wild: Space and resources are limited, animals that live together in the wild will not necessarily thrive together in an enclosure. Live plants can also be potted and left on top of a sheet substrate (like paper towels or indoor/outdoor carpeting).
The main idea to keep in mind, is that you must provide the animal's basic needs, and the enclosure must be safe.
Last modified: Tuesday, June 6, 2004
|
