The Most Common Plants for a Bioactive Vivarium
Creating a bioactive vivarium is an art that balances aesthetics, functionality, and the well-being of its inhabitants. The right plant selection is crucial, as plants not only enhance the visual appeal but also play a vital role in maintaining the micro-ecosystem. In this article, we will explore the most common plants for a bioactive vivarium, considering factors such as temperature tolerance, leaf size and shape, and colour variation. These aspects are essential for creating a thriving, self-sustaining environment for your dart frogs or other vivarium inhabitants.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Temperature Range: 15-30°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Medium to large, heart-shaped leaves
Colour Variation: Green, variegated with yellow or white
Pothos is a versatile and resilient plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a popular choice for bioactive vivariums. Its heart-shaped leaves can vary in size, providing a lush backdrop for your vivarium. The variegated varieties add a touch of brightness with their splashes of yellow or white. Pothos can grow in low light conditions and is highly effective in removing toxins from the air, contributing to a healthier environment for your amphibians.
2. Bromeliads (Family Bromeliaceae)
Temperature Range: 20-30°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Varies widely; can be narrow and spiky or broad and flat
Colour Variation: Green, red, yellow, pink, and purple
Bromeliads are a favourite among vivarium enthusiasts due to their striking appearance and adaptability. These plants can store water in their rosettes, providing a micro-habitat for small creatures and aiding in humidity regulation. With a broad range of leaf shapes and vibrant colours, bromeliads can serve as focal points in your vivarium. They thrive in warm, humid environments and can tolerate partial shade, making them ideal for tropical setups.
3. Ferns (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 15-25°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Typically feathery and delicate
Colour Variation: Shades of green
Ferns are an excellent choice for adding a touch of elegance to your bioactive vivarium. Their feathery fronds create a soft, natural look that contrasts beautifully with other plants. Ferns prefer high humidity and indirect light, which aligns perfectly with the needs of dart frogs and other amphibians. Popular species for vivariums include the Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) and Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.), both of which are known for their lush, green foliage.
4. Philodendron (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 18-28°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Varies from small and heart-shaped to large and lobed
Colour Variation: Green, sometimes with reddish or purple hues
Philodendrons are another staple in the world of bioactive vivariums. These plants are appreciated for their robust nature and attractive foliage. The wide range of leaf shapes and sizes allows for creative planting schemes. Philodendrons are particularly effective in filtering indoor pollutants, contributing to the overall health of your vivarium. They thrive in warm temperatures and moderate to high humidity, making them suitable for tropical environments.
5. Fittonia (Fittonia albivenis)
Temperature Range: 18-24°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Small, oval leaves
Colour Variation: Green with striking white, red, or pink veins
Fittonia, also known as the nerve plant, is cherished for its vibrant leaf patterns. The intricate veining on the leaves adds a splash of colour and interest to the vivarium floor. Fittonia prefers high humidity and indirect light, making it an ideal ground cover in a bioactive setup. Its compact size allows it to fit neatly among other plants, enhancing the diversity and visual appeal of your vivarium.
6. Anthurium (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 18-28°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Medium to large, heart-shaped or elongated
Colour Variation: Green leaves with brightly coloured spathes (red, pink, white)
Anthuriums are renowned for their glossy, often heart-shaped leaves and striking spathes. These plants add a tropical flair to any vivarium with their bold colours and unique shapes. Anthuriums thrive in warm, humid conditions and prefer indirect light. They can serve as both foliage and flowering plants in your setup, providing a dynamic visual element.
7. Peperomia (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 18-24°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Small to medium, round to oval
Colour Variation: Green, variegated with cream or yellow, and some with red or purple tinges
Peperomias are small, low-growing plants that are perfect for adding texture and variety to the lower levels of your vivarium. Their leaves come in a range of shapes and colours, offering plenty of options for creating an attractive layout. Peperomias are relatively low-maintenance, requiring moderate humidity and indirect light. They are well-suited to the microclimates within a bioactive vivarium.
8. Ficus (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 18-28°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Varies; often small and oval but can be larger
Colour Variation: Green, sometimes variegated
Ficus plants, such as Ficus pumila (Creeping Fig) and Ficus benjamina (Weeping Fig), are popular choices for vivariums due to their adaptability and attractive foliage. Creeping Fig, in particular, is excellent for covering backgrounds and creating a naturalistic appearance. These plants thrive in warm, humid conditions and can tolerate a range of light levels, making them versatile additions to any bioactive setup.
9. Tillandsia (Air Plants)
Temperature Range: 18-30°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Small to medium, narrow and pointed
Colour Variation: Green, sometimes with silver or reddish hues
Tillandsias, commonly known as air plants, are unique in that they do not require soil to grow. They absorb moisture and nutrients through their leaves, making them ideal for creative placements on driftwood or other decorative elements. Tillandsias thrive in high humidity and good air circulation, conditions often found in tropical vivariums. Their distinctive appearance adds an interesting structural element to the setup.
10. Mosses (Various Species)
Temperature Range: 15-25°C
Leaf Size and Shape: Very small, forming dense mats
Colour Variation: Various shades of green
Mosses are essential for creating a lush, natural look in a bioactive vivarium. They help retain moisture, support microfauna, and provide a soft ground cover that contrasts well with larger plants. Common choices include Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) and Pillow Moss (Leucobryum glaucum), both of which thrive in high humidity and low light conditions. Mosses are particularly beneficial for maintaining the humidity levels required by dart frogs and other amphibians.
LIGHTVIBES.CO.UK ADVICE
Selecting the right plants for your bioactive vivarium is crucial for creating a balanced and thriving ecosystem. Consider the specific needs of your vivarium inhabitants, such as temperature and humidity requirements, when choosing plants. The diversity in leaf size, shape, and colour among the plants listed above allows for endless creative possibilities, ensuring a visually stunning and healthy environment for your dart frogs or other exotic pets. With careful planning and maintenance, your bioactive vivarium can become a captivating miniature world, teeming with life and beauty.
