Top 5 Plants for Bioactive Vivariums and How to Care for Them
Bioactive vivariums rely heavily on the plants within them to create a healthy ecosystem. Here are the top five plants ideal for bioactive setups and tips on how to care for them.
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a hardy, versatile plant that thrives in a variety of conditions. It’s perfect for bioactive vivariums due to its tolerance of low light and high humidity. This plant can be used to create climbing structures and provide shelter for small animals.
Care Tips:
- Light: Low to moderate indirect light.
- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Humidity: Thrives in high humidity environments (Terrarium Tribe) (Bantam.earth).
2. Ferns (Various species)
Ferns, such as the Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus), are excellent for adding lush greenery to a vivarium. They thrive in humid, shaded conditions, making them ideal for tropical setups.
Care Tips:
- Light: Low to moderate indirect light.
- Water: Maintain consistently moist soil.
- Humidity: High humidity is essential (Bloom and Boughs) (Bantam.earth).
3. Moss (Various species)
Mosses are perfect for ground cover in bioactive vivariums, helping to maintain moisture levels and providing a natural aesthetic. They are also easy to care for and establish.
Care Tips:
- Light: Low light.
- Water: Keep consistently moist.
- Humidity: Requires high humidity (Terrarium Tribe) (Bantam.earth).
4. Bromeliads (Various species)
Bromeliads add a splash of color and texture to a vivarium. They are epiphytic plants, meaning they grow on other plants or substrates rather than in soil, which makes them ideal for creating a three-dimensional look.
Care Tips:
- Light: Moderate to bright indirect light.
- Water: Mist regularly to maintain moisture.
- Humidity: Prefers high humidity environments (Reptile Advisor) (Bantam.earth).
5. Tillandsia (Air Plants)
Tillandsia, or air plants, are another type of epiphyte that are popular in bioactive vivariums. They don’t require soil and can be attached to various surfaces within the enclosure.
Care Tips:
- Light: Bright, indirect light.
- Water: Soak in water for a few hours every week.
- Humidity: Enjoys high humidity but can tolerate drier conditions if regularly misted (Bloom and Boughs)(Terrarium Tribe).
