The Benefits of Live Plants in a Bioactive Vivarium

Looking to set up a bioactive terrarium for your pet frog? One key component that you won’t want to overlook is the role of live plants. Not only do they add a beautiful touch to your terrarium, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy environment for your pet frog.  Be sure to check out our care guides as well!

Here are some reasons why live plants are a must-have in your bioactive terrarium:

  1. They help break down waste: In a bioactive terrarium, the goal is to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where the waste produced by your pet frog is broken down naturally. Live plants play a crucial role in this process, as they help to absorb and process the waste, converting it into usable nutrients for the soil and other organisms in the terrarium.

    1. Clean-Up Crew’s role in breaking down waste.
    2. Using live plants in a bioactive terrarium is essential for maintaining proper nitrogen cycling, which is critical for the health and well-being of the animals living in the enclosure.
  2. They add oxygen to the environment: Just like in the wild, live plants in your terrarium will also help to add oxygen to the environment. This is particularly important for pet frogs, as they require a well-ventilated environment in order to thrive.

  3. They provide natural hiding spots: Live plants also serve as a natural hiding spot for your pet frog. This is particularly important for arboreal species, who require plenty of hiding spots in order to feel secure and comfortable in their environment.

Overall, adding live plants to your bioactive terrarium is a simple and effective way to create a healthy and beautiful environment for your pet frog. So why not give it a try today? Check out our selection of live plants and other terrarium essentials to get started.

Don't Shop Just Anywhere

When setting up a bioactive terrarium, one of the most important aspects to consider is the use of live plants. Not only do they provide natural beauty to your enclosure, but they also play a crucial role in maintaining the ecosystem. However, it is important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with using live plants, specifically the risk of exposing your amphibians to toxic pesticides.

Many big box stores sell plants that have been treated with pesticides, which can have serious negative effects on your pets. Amphibians are particularly sensitive to chemicals, and even small amounts of pesticide exposure can lead to serious health issues. By purchasing plants from a trusted source, such as our marketplace, you can ensure that your plants are free of harmful chemicals and safe for your pets to be around.

Not only do our plants come from trusted sources, but we also offer a wide variety of species that are specifically suited to thrive in a bioactive terrarium environment. Our team of experts can help you select the best plants for your enclosure based on factors such as lighting, humidity, and substrate. With our selection of healthy, safe plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving ecosystem for your amphibians to enjoy.

The process of breaking down waste in a bioactive terrarium begins with the presence of isopods and springtails. These organisms feed on decaying matter and bacteria in the soil. As they consume the waste, they produce feces, which contain organic matter and nutrients that are essential for plant growth. In addition, the bacteria in their digestive system break down complex compounds into simpler forms that can be more readily absorbed by plants. These nutrients then become available to the plants through the process of mineralization, in which microbes convert organic matter into inorganic forms that can be taken up by plant roots.

Isopods and springtails play a crucial role in breaking down waste in a bioactive terrarium. They are often referred to as “cleanup crews” because they feed on decaying organic matter, such as animal waste and dead plant material, and help to break it down into smaller particles. This process is known as fragmentation, and it allows bacteria and fungi to more easily break down the organic matter.

Once the organic matter has been fragmented, bacteria begin to break it down through a process called mineralization. During mineralization, bacteria convert organic compounds into inorganic compounds, such as ammonia and nitrate. These inorganic compounds can then be taken up by plants and used as nutrients for growth.

Isopods and springtails also help to aerate the soil in a bioactive terrarium. As they move through the soil, they create small channels that allow air and water to penetrate deeper into the substrate. This promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria and fungi that are involved in the decomposition process.

Overall, the role of isopods and springtails in breaking down waste is critical to the health of a bioactive terrarium. Without these organisms, organic matter would accumulate and decay, leading to a buildup of harmful compounds that could be detrimental to the plants and animals living in the enclosure.

Isopods are clean up crew drawing by Jeanne

The Importance of Nitrogen Cycling

Nitrogen cycling is a critical process in bioactive terrariums that allows plants to thrive. In this process, beneficial bacteria convert ammonia, which is produced by animal waste, into nitrites and then into nitrates. Nitrates are essential for plant growth, and in a bioactive terrarium, they are supplied by the waste produced by the animals and the breakdown of decaying plant matter. Nitrogen cycling is a delicate balance, and it requires a healthy population of bacteria and other microorganisms to function properly.

Once the nutrients are available, the plants in the terrarium play a crucial role in breaking down waste. Through a process called phytoremediation, plants take up nutrients from the soil and convert them into biomass. This process is facilitated by the presence of root-associated microbes, which work together with the plant to break down organic matter and convert it into usable nutrients. The roots of plants also release enzymes and other compounds that help to break down organic matter and convert it into a form that can be more readily taken up by the plant.

Nitrogen Cycling 101

Nitrogen cycling is an essential process for maintaining a healthy ecosystem in any enclosed terrarium that houses live animals. In this process, ammonia, which is a toxic byproduct of animal waste, is converted to less harmful compounds such as nitrites and nitrates. This conversion takes place through a series of chemical reactions involving a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and archaea.

The first step in nitrogen cycling is the breakdown of ammonia by nitrifying bacteria, which convert ammonia to nitrite ions. Nitrite ions are also toxic to animals at high levels, so they must be further converted to nitrates, which are much less harmful. This conversion is carried out by another group of bacteria known as nitrite-oxidizing bacteria.

The final step in nitrogen cycling involves the uptake of nitrates by plants, which use them as a source of nitrogen for growth. This process is known as assimilation, and it is critical in maintaining healthy levels of nitrogen in the ecosystem. Without plants, excess nitrates can build up in the soil and water, leading to a variety of problems including algae blooms and fish kills.

In a small enclosed terrarium with live animals, nitrogen cycling is especially important because there is limited space and resources for waste management. The presence of live plants is critical in this ecosystem because they play a vital role in removing excess nitrates from the soil and water. Without live plants, the levels of nitrates in the ecosystem would build up over time, eventually becoming toxic to the animals living within it. Therefore, it is essential to maintain a balance of nitrogen cycling in a small enclosed terrarium to keep the ecosystem healthy and thriving.

When nitrogen cycling breaks down, it can lead to toxic ammonia and nitrite levels in the terrarium. This can be harmful to the animals living in the enclosure and may even lead to their death. If there are not enough beneficial bacteria present to convert ammonia to nitrite and nitrite to nitrate, the nitrogen cycle can become disrupted. This can happen when there are too many animals in the enclosure producing more waste than the bacteria can handle, or if the enclosure is not properly maintained.

Another factor that can contribute to a breakdown in nitrogen cycling is the absence of live plants. As mentioned earlier, live plants play a crucial role in the nitrogen cycle by absorbing nitrate and converting it into oxygen and organic compounds. Without plants, the nitrate levels in the enclosure can build up to dangerous levels, leading to a breakdown in the nitrogen cycle.

It’s important for hobbyists to monitor the nitrogen cycle in their terrarium regularly and take steps to maintain a healthy balance. This can include adding more beneficial bacteria, reducing the number of animals in the enclosure, or adding more live plants to help absorb excess nitrate. By understanding the nitrogen cycle and taking steps to maintain a healthy balance, hobbyists can ensure the health and wellbeing of their animals in a small enclosed terrarium.

Healthy Environments

Air

Plants play a critical role in producing oxygen in an enclosed terrarium, which is particularly important for dart frogs who require high levels of oxygen to thrive. Through the process of photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, making them natural air purifiers. Additionally, plants help to regulate humidity and temperature levels in the terrarium, which is crucial for the overall health of the dart frogs.

However, it is important to note that too much humidity and lack of air flow can lead to stagnant air, which can be harmful to the dart frogs. This is where ventilation comes into play. A small fan or air vent can help to circulate the air in the terrarium and prevent stagnant air from building up. By using plants to produce oxygen and regulate humidity, while also ensuring proper ventilation, dart frogs can thrive in a healthy environment.

Humidity levels are critical for the health of dart frogs, as they require a specific range to maintain their health and well-being. Plants can help to regulate humidity levels in the terrarium by releasing moisture into the air through the process of transpiration. The humidity level can be further controlled by misting the plants and the terrarium periodically. This not only helps to keep the humidity level optimal for the dart frogs, but it also ensures that the plants are healthy and thriving.

Temperature regulation is another important aspect of keeping dart frogs healthy in an enclosed terrarium. Plants play a role in regulating temperature levels by providing shade and releasing moisture, which can help to cool the terrarium. Additionally, plants can act as natural air purifiers, helping to remove toxins from the air that can be harmful to the dart frogs.

In addition to producing oxygen and regulating humidity and temperature levels, plants can also help to create air flow in the terrarium. As plants release moisture into the air through transpiration, a natural air flow is created, which can help to prevent stagnant air from building up. This air flow not only helps to keep the dart frogs healthy, but it also ensures that the plants are receiving proper air circulation and nutrients.

In summary, plants play a critical role in producing oxygen, regulating humidity and temperature levels, and creating air flow in an enclosed terrarium. By ensuring proper ventilation, dart frogs can thrive in a healthy environment with the help of their plant companions.

 

Substrate

The roots of live plants play a crucial role in maintaining the health of a bioactive terrarium. One important function of plant roots is to stabilize the substrate, preventing it from becoming too compacted or waterlogged. When the substrate becomes too compacted, it can lead to anaerobic conditions, which can harm the beneficial microorganisms in the terrarium. The roots help to aerate the substrate and create channels for water to flow through, which promotes healthy microbial activity and nutrient cycling.

In addition to stabilizing the substrate, plant roots also help to prevent the buildup of harmful chemicals and pollutants in the terrarium. Through a process known as phytoremediation, plants can absorb and metabolize a variety of toxins and pollutants, including heavy metals and volatile organic compounds. This helps to maintain a healthy and clean environment for the animals in the terrarium.

Another important function of plant roots is the absorption of nutrients from the substrate. As the plants absorb nutrients, they release beneficial compounds and enzymes that support microbial activity and nutrient cycling. This helps to ensure that the terrarium remains a balanced ecosystem, with all of the necessary nutrients and resources available for the animals and plants to thrive.

Live plants in a bioactive terrarium also provide a natural source of hiding places and climbing structures for the animals. This helps to create a more naturalistic environment that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional for the animals. The plants also help to regulate the humidity and temperature in the terrarium by releasing moisture into the air through a process known as transpiration. This helps to create a more stable and comfortable environment for the animals.

In summary, the roots of live plants in a bioactive terrarium provide many important benefits, including stabilizing the substrate, preventing the buildup of harmful chemicals and pollutants, absorbing nutrients, providing hiding places and climbing structures for the animals, and regulating humidity and temperature. By incorporating live plants into a terrarium, hobbyists can create a more naturalistic and healthy environment for their animals.

Hiding Spots

As owners of pet frogs, it’s important to provide them with an environment that closely resembles their natural habitat. One way to achieve this is by providing them with plenty of hiding spots. Hiding spots are essential for frogs as they provide them with a sense of security, which helps them to reduce stress levels and feel comfortable in their new surroundings. For dart frogs, it’s especially important to have a range of hiding spots, as they are small and delicate creatures that can easily become stressed in unfamiliar environments.

When it comes to hiding spots, there are many options available. Live plants, cork bark, and hollow logs are all great options for providing hiding spots for your pet frogs. Live plants not only provide hiding spots, but they also serve as a food source, aid in humidity control, and oxygenate the enclosure. Cork bark and hollow logs provide excellent hiding spots and also help to regulate humidity levels by providing additional surface area for condensation to form.

It’s important to remember that every frog has its own unique personality and preferences. Some frogs may prefer to hide in dense foliage, while others may prefer the security of a hollow log. Providing a variety of hiding spots ensures that each frog has the opportunity to find its own preferred spot, which can help them to feel comfortable and reduce stress levels. By providing plenty of hiding spots for your pet frogs, you can help to create a comfortable and secure environment that closely mimics their natural habitat.

  1. Bromeliads:

    • Neoregelia ‘Fireball’
    • Guzmania ‘Lingulata’
    • Tillandsia ‘Ionantha’
  2. Ficus:

    • Ficus pumila
    • Ficus benjamina
    • Ficus microcarpa
  3. Philodendrons:

    • Philodendron ‘Brasil’
    • Philodendron ‘Green Heartleaf’
    • Philodendron ‘Congo’
  4. Pothos:

    • Epipremnum aureum ‘Marble Queen’
    • Epipremnum aureum ‘Neon’
    • Epipremnum aureum ‘N’joy’
  5. Peperomias:

    • Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’
    • Peperomia obtusifolia
    • Peperomia prostrata
  6. Fittonias:

    • Fittonia ‘White Anne’
    • Fittonia ‘Pink Vein’
    • Fittonia ‘Red Vein’
  7. Selaginella:

    • Selaginella kraussiana ‘Brownii’
    • Selaginella pallescens
    • Selaginella uncinata
  8. Mosses:

    • Sphagnum moss
    • Java moss
    • Sheet moss
  9. Ferns:

    • Adiantum capillus-veneris
    • Nephrolepis exaltata
    • Polypodium aureum

Rarer Choices

  1. Begonia: a. Begonia amphioxus b. Begonia exotica c. Begonia prismatocarpa

  2. Hoya: a. Hoya australis ‘Lisa’ b. Hoya carnosa ‘Krinkle Kurl’ c. Hoya pubicalyx ‘Royal Hawaiian Purple’

  3. Peperomia: a. Peperomia caperata ‘Rosso’ b. Peperomia glabella ‘Red Stem’ c. Peperomia puteolata ‘Parallel Peperomia’

  4. Anthurium: a. Anthurium ‘Ace of Spades’ b. Anthurium clarinervium c. Anthurium faustomirandae

  5. Philodendron: a. Philodendron brandtianum b. Philodendron hastatum ‘Silver Sword’ c. Philodendron melanochrysum

  6. Dischidia: a. Dischidia nummularia ‘String of Nickels’ b. Dischidia ovata c. Dischidia ruscifolia

  7. Cryptanthus: a. Cryptanthus ‘It’ (Red) b. Cryptanthus ‘Pink Starlight’ c. Cryptanthus ‘Ruby’

  8. Syngonium: a. Syngonium erythrophyllum b. Syngonium macrophyllum c. Syngonium podophyllum ‘White Butterfly’

  9. Alocasia: a. Alocasia ‘Dragon Scale’ b. Alocasia ‘Polly’ c. Alocasia reginula ‘Black Velvet’

  10. Monstera: a. Monstera adansonii ‘Swiss Cheese Vine’ b. Monstera deliciosa ‘Thai Constellation’ c. Monstera standleyana ‘Albo Variegata’

  11. Anthurium: crystallinumm regale, magnificum, warocqueanum, clarinervium

Orchids

  1. Masdevallia:
  • Masdevallia coccinea
  • Masdevallia caudata
  • Masdevallia nidifica
  • Masdevallia veitchiana
  • Masdevallia infracta
  1. Dracula:
  • Dracula vampira
  • Dracula chimaera
  • Dracula deltoidea
  • Dracula wallisii
  • Dracula lotax
  1. Pleurothallis:
  • Pleurothallis grobyi
  • Pleurothallis allenii
  • Pleurothallis leptotifolia
  • Pleurothallis fimbriata
  • Pleurothallis restrepioides

Lepanthes – More Advanced

  1. Lepanthes calodictyon – This orchid species is known for its intricate flowers, which have a bright orange-red color and intricate patterning. It is native to Ecuador and can be found growing at elevations between 1,000 and 1,800 meters.

  2. Lepanthes gargoyla – A tiny orchid species that is native to Ecuador, Lepanthes gargoyla is known for its unique, gargoyle-like flowers. The plant produces a single, tall stem with a cluster of flowers at the top.

  3. Lepanthes telipogoniflora – This orchid species is named for its unusual flowers, which resemble the flowers of the Telipogon genus. The plant is native to Costa Rica and can be found growing in cloud forests at elevations between 1,500 and 2,000 meters.

  4. Lepanthes vasquezii – A rare orchid species that is native to Ecuador, Lepanthes vasquezii is known for its small, delicate flowers that are a deep red color. The plant grows in cloud forests at elevations between 1,500 and 1,900 meters.

  5. Lepanthes lilliputiana – As its name suggests, Lepanthes lilliputiana is a tiny orchid species that is native to Colombia. The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers with delicate, thread-like petals. It can be found growing at elevations between 2,500 and 2,800 meters.

Conclusion

Plants are a vital component in a bioactive terrarium, providing numerous benefits that are critical to the well-being of the animals living in the enclosure. First and foremost, plants play a significant role in the nitrogen cycle, which is the process by which waste is broken down into useful nutrients for plants to absorb. This cycle is essential for maintaining proper water quality in the terrarium, which is crucial for the health of the animals living in the enclosure.

In addition to their role in the nitrogen cycle, plants also help to regulate humidity and temperature in the terrarium. By absorbing moisture from the substrate and releasing it into the air through transpiration, plants can help to maintain a consistent level of humidity in the enclosure. This is especially important for species that require high levels of humidity, such as dart frogs. Moreover, plants also help to maintain a stable temperature by providing shade and cooling the air through transpiration.

Plants also serve as natural air purifiers, filtering out harmful toxins and pollutants from the air. This is especially important in an enclosed environment such as a bioactive terrarium, where stagnant air can quickly become a problem. By absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis, plants can help to promote healthy air circulation and prevent the buildup of harmful gases.

Another important benefit of plants in a bioactive terrarium is their ability to provide natural hiding places and enrichment for the animals living in the enclosure. Many species of animals, such as dart frogs, require hiding places in order to feel safe and secure. Plants provide a natural source of cover and hiding places, which can help to reduce stress and promote natural behaviors in the animals living in the enclosure.

Lastly, the presence of plants can add a beautiful aesthetic to the terrarium. The various shapes, sizes, and colors of different plant species can create a visually stunning and dynamic environment. Many species of plants used in bioactive terrariums, such as rare orchids or miniature ferns, can also be considered collector’s items due to their beauty and rarity, making them valuable additions to any bioactive terrarium.

In summary, plants play a critical role in the success of a bioactive terrarium. They provide numerous benefits, including regulating humidity and temperature, purifying the air, providing natural hiding places and enrichment, and adding a beautiful aesthetic to the enclosure. By carefully selecting and maintaining the appropriate plant species, hobbyists can create a thriving and dynamic environment for their animals to live in.

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