cover? These are all important factors to consider in
your enclosure design and will ultimately determine
the type of substrate, plant species and other
furnishings (such as logs and branches), as well as
temperature and humidity levels of the system.
Enclosure.
To achieve a bioactive system, purpose-built glass
reptile enclosures are generally the most suitable
option as they have easy front access, adequate
built-in ventilation and come in a range of shapes
and sizes suited to terrestrial, arboreal and semi-
aquatic species. Glass reptile enclosures are
usually waterproof to a certain level and are good at
retaining humidity and moisture. Re-appropriated
aquariums can also be converted to bioactive
systems, however lack of front access can be
problematic, making it difficult to maintain and
service the system solely from the top. The size and
configuration of the enclosure will be dependent on
the species-specific requirements, as well as the
number of animals being housed.
1.
Substrate and Drainage.
The success of a bioactive system is dependent on
its foundations - the substrate layer. The substrate
in these systems will become a living, breathing
entity of its own, supporting organisms capable of
breaking down the waste of any reptile or amphibian
inhabitants. In a fully thriving bioactive system, one
rarely has to remove waste or faeces from the
enclosure, as these invertebrates should do much
of the cleaning for you, just as it would take place in
the wild. It’s amazing to watch reptile or amphibian
poo get completely broken down and disappear into
the soil in as little as 24 hours!
2.
First attempt at a Bioactive System!
1. With drainage layer and mesh installed.
2. Note use of rocks as ‘retaining wall’ in LHS
3.
back corner.
3. Selecting the plants is the creative
element!
4. Almost a year later. Without the framework
of the enclosure being visible, this is
reminiscent of a lush, natural tropical habitat!
All images courtesy Ben Dessen.