Differences Between Vivariums, and Terrariums
When researching the ideal home for your tarantula or other exotic pet, you’ll often encounter terms like “vivarium” and “terrarium.” At a glance, they may seem interchangeable—both refer to enclosed containers designed to maintain a particular environment. However, understanding the subtle differences between these two setups can help you choose the best one for your specific animal and husbandry needs.
In this post, we’ll clarify what sets vivariums apart from terrariums, explore their defining characteristics, and help you decide which enclosure type aligns best with your pet’s natural habitat and your personal preferences as a keeper.
Defining the Terms
Terrarium:
A terrarium is a sealed or semi-sealed enclosure that primarily houses plants. While it can hold small invertebrates (such as isopods or springtails), a terrarium’s focus is on creating and maintaining a miniature ecosystem that supports plant life. Terrariums often rely on humidity generated by the enclosed moisture cycle and can be decorative, purely ornamental, or micro-habitats for certain tiny species.
Vivarium:
A vivarium is a more general term that refers to any contained environment designed to simulate a specific habitat for an animal. Unlike a terrarium, a vivarium’s primary purpose is to provide a livable space for one or more animals—such as reptiles, amphibians, insects, or arachnids—along with suitable plants, substrate, and décor that replicate their natural surroundings.
Key Differences
Primary Purpose:
Terrarium: Primarily focused on plant growth and a self-sustaining environment. Animals, if present, play a minor role, often functioning as part of the cleanup crew rather than the main attraction.
Vivarium: Designed for housing animals first and foremost. Plants and substrate are chosen to support the pet’s health and comfort, not just for aesthetics.
Environmental Control:
Terrarium: Often relies on the natural moisture cycle: water condenses, drips back into the substrate, and maintains humidity levels. Minimal intervention is needed once the balance is set, though some monitoring is still wise.
Vivarium: Typically requires more deliberate environmental management. Keepers control humidity, temperature, and lighting to match the needs of the animal, making changes as required to ensure proper conditions.
Complexity of Setup:
Terrarium: Can be relatively simple to set up if you’re focusing on plants. The main goal is to establish a stable, self-contained ecosystem that needs minimal intervention once it’s balanced.
Vivarium: Often more complex, as it must cater to an animal’s specific requirements. You may need special equipment such as heat lamps, UV lighting (for some reptiles), or humidifiers to maintain suitable conditions for your pet.
Plant Selection:
Terrarium: Showcases plant life—ornamental plants, mosses, and ferns chosen for their compatibility in a closed, humid environment. Plant health and growth are top priorities.
Vivarium: Plants serve a supportive role—providing cover, climbing opportunities, or humidity regulation for the animal. The choice of plants is driven by the animal’s needs and the environmental conditions they require.
Animal Inhabitants:
Terrarium: If animals are present, they’re usually small invertebrates that aid in decomposition, nutrient cycling, and maintaining the micro-ecosystem.
Vivarium: The environment is tailored to the primary animal occupant(s), such as a tarantula, frog, or gecko. The animal’s well-being, feeding, and behavior are central considerations when selecting substrate, décor, and plant life.
If You Want a Plant-Focused Display:
A terrarium is perfect if you love indoor gardening, enjoy watching plants thrive behind glass, and appreciate minimal maintenance once the system is established. The presence of tiny invertebrates can be a fun bonus, but they’re not the main event.
If You’re Housing an Animal:
A vivarium is the way to go if you’re caring for a pet that requires specific temperature, humidity, or lighting conditions. The enclosure design should revolve around your animal’s comfort, safety, and behavioral needs. Plants, if included, are selected to complement and support your pet’s environment rather than as the primary focal point.
Tips for Success
Research Your Species:
If you’re setting up a vivarium, tailor it to the exact needs of your pet. For a terrarium, learn about plant species that flourish in enclosed, humid conditions.Start Simple:
For terrariums, begin with hardy plants and establish a balance before introducing more sensitive species. For vivariums, choose easy-to-care-for animals and basic plants that can handle fluctuating conditions as you fine-tune the environment.Monitor Conditions:
Terrariums still need occasional checks for mold, pests, or dying plants. Vivariums require routine monitoring of humidity, temperature, and animal health. Regular observation and minor adjustments ensure long-term success.Seek Guidance:
Don’t hesitate to consult reliable sources—forums, reputable breeders, experienced hobbyists, or horticultural experts—when setting up your terrarium or vivarium. Community support can help you troubleshoot and improve your setup.
While both vivariums and terrariums are enclosed environments that allow you to bring a slice of nature indoors, their primary focuses differ. Terrariums center on plant life, creating low-maintenance, self-sustaining mini-ecosystems that are often ornamental. Vivariums, on the other hand, are tailored to the requirements of the animal occupants, with plants and other elements serving to replicate a habitat that ensures health and comfort.
By understanding these distinctions, you can confidently choose the enclosure type that best suits your goals—be it showcasing lush greenery in a terrarium or providing a perfectly balanced home for your tarantula or other exotic pets in a vivarium.
