Welcome to the fascinating world of arid vivariums! (If you’re looking for tropical vivariums click here). In this guide, we'll dive deep into the art of creating and maintaining captivating arid habitats.

Jump to a section:

1. Introduction to Arid Vivariums

Arid vivariums are miniature ecosystems designed to mimic the unique environmental conditions found in arid (dry) regions around the world.

Contrary to popular belief, 'arid' doesn't exclusively refer to desert landscapes; it encompasses a variety of dry environments, including grasslands, light woodlands, and scrub-type habitats.

This diversity allows for a wide range of possibilities when constructing arid vivariums.

The Appeal of Arid Environments

What draws vivarium enthusiasts to arid habitats? The allure lies in the distinct beauty and challenges presented by these ecosystems, and the animals that inhabit them.

From the rugged landscapes of desert dunes to the sparse vegetation of grasslands, arid environments offer a captivating array of textures, colors, and incredible life forms.

Exploring the intricacies of arid habitats allows hobbyists to appreciate the resilience and adaptability of the species that call these environments home.

Benefits Arid Vivariums

Creating an arid vivarium offers numerous benefits for both hobbyists and the inhabitants of these miniature worlds. For enthusiasts, it provides an opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural world and gain a deeper understanding of arid ecosystems.

Additionally, arid vivariums can serve as aesthetically pleasing displays, adding a touch of natural beauty to any living space.

From a practical standpoint, maintaining an arid vivarium can be relatively low-maintenance compared to other types of vivariums, making it an accessible option for beginners and experienced hobbyists alike.

In the following sections of this guide, we'll explore the intricacies of planning, constructing, and maintaining an arid vivarium.

2. Planning Your Arid Vivarium

Creating a successful arid vivarium begins with careful planning, with every aspect revolving around the species of animal you select.

The primary goal should be to provide a habitat that meets the unique needs of the inhabitants while offering a naturalistic and enriching environment.

Researching Species Needs

Before diving into the design and construction of your arid vivarium, it's crucial to research the specific needs of the animal species you plan to keep.

Whether you're considering reptiles, amphibians, or invertebrates, each species has its own set of requirements for their habitat including temperature, humidity, hides, and more.

This emphasis on individual species' needs is at the core of the bioactive movement, which aims to give your pets a more natural lifestyle.

Select a type Arid Habitat

The type of arid habitat you choose to replicate in your vivarium depends on the species you wish to keep. Arid environments encompass a wide range of landscapes, including deserts, savannahs, rocky outcrops, and scrublands.

Research and gather information about the specific habitat your chosen species originates from, as this will guide your design decisions and ensure the most suitable environment for your pets.

Considerations for Enclosures

Once you've determined the species and habitat type, it's essential to consider the size and type of enclosure that will best accommodate their needs.

When it comes to enclosures for arid vivariums, you have several options to choose from. Glass is a popular option, but don’t rule out PVC, wood, acrylic, or custom-built enclosures.

The size of the enclosure should allow ample space for natural behaviors, such as burrowing, climbing, and basking for your chosen species. The larger the enclosure the better (our pets deserve more than the bare minimum).

Additionally, you may want to consider factors such as ventilation, access for maintenance, and the aesthetic appeal of the enclosure.

3. Creating the Habitat

Now that you've planned the basic requirements for your arid vivarium, it's time to bring your scape to life. This section will cover essential elements such as substrate, backgrounds, and hardscape, all of which play crucial roles in recreating a naturalistic habitat.

Substrate Selection

The substrate serves as the foundation of your arid vivarium and plays a crucial role in maintaining the environment's stability and promoting natural behaviors.

Suitable substrates for arid vivariums include various mixtures of sand, gravel, coco coir, bark, fertilizer-free soils, as well as organic matter like leaves and compost for nutrients. These materials mimic the natural habitat of desert environments and provide a stable surface for burrowing, digging, and nesting activities.

Make sure to research the needs of the specific species you will be housing. If you will need a large amount of substrate, it may be cheaper to make your own substrate mix. If you prefer the convenience of a pre-made substrate, I recommend checking out The Bio Dude.

Backgrounds

Backgrounds may not be necessary, but they do serve as more than just decorative elements in arid vivariums; they can play a crucial role in enriching the environment and supporting the natural behaviors of its inhabitants.

By providing additional climbing surfaces and hiding spots for inhabitants, they encourage more natural behaviors such as climbing, exploring, and seeking shelter. By mimicking the varied terrain of arid landscapes, you create a more dynamic and stimulating environment for your pet.

In addition to providing climbing surfaces, backgrounds offer extra space for planting additional vegetation. This not only enhances the visual appeal of the vivarium but also contributes to the overall health and balance of the ecosystem.

❯❯ Discover 6 types of backgrounds to consider for your vivarium.

Lastly, consider incorporating pockets or ledges into the background to offer additional areas for planting, allowing you to maximize greenery and create lush pockets of vegetation within the vivarium.

Hardscape Design

Hardscape is where you can truly unleash your creativity to create a natural-looking habitat for your inhabitants. Incorporate elements such as rock formations, driftwood, and other decor to mimic the rugged terrain of arid landscapes.

It's essential to consider the needs of species that dig, as many desert-dwelling creatures are avid burrowers. When arranging rocks and other hardscape elements, take precautions to ensure they are secure and won't collapse onto your inhabitants.

Place larger rocks directly on the base of the enclosure to provide stability, and consider securing them in place with silicone for added security. This extra step can help prevent accidents and create a safer environment for your pets.

By carefully selecting and arranging the elements of your arid vivarium, you can create a stunning and functional habitat that closely resembles the natural landscapes of desert ecosystems.

Take your time during this stage of the process, as attention to detail will ultimately contribute to the success and enjoyment of your vivarium.

4. Selecting proper Plants

Choosing the right plants for your arid vivarium is crucial for creating a vibrant and sustainable ecosystem. In this section, we'll highlight some key considerations for plant selection and provide tips for planting them effectively.

Plant Selection

When selecting plants for your arid vivarium, prioritize species that are well-adapted to dry environments. Drought-tolerant plants that thrive in arid conditions are ideal choices, as they require minimal watering and can withstand the dry environment of your vivarium.

Consider factors such as growth habits, size, and lighting requirements when choosing plants for your vivarium. Opt for species that complement the overall aesthetic of your habitat and provide suitable hiding spots and climbing opportunities for your inhabitants.

Also make sure to consider the safety of plants based on your pet species. Cactus plants are hardy, but you will want to be sure to purchase spineless varieties.

Below are a few plants that are suitable for arid environments to get you started.

Desert plants

Aloes
Airplants
Elephant Feed
Gasteria
Haworthias
Hens and Chicks
House Leek
Jade Plants
Mother of Pearl
Sansevierias
Sedum / Stonecrop
Spineless Cactus
Succulents

grassland plants

Blue Grama Grass
Buffalo Grass
Carex Grass
Fescues
Sansevierias
Spider Plants
Spinifex
Spineless Cactus
Succulents
Tradescantias

Where to purchase plants

While there’s no shortage of online stores to purchase vivarium plants, it can be a bit more difficult to find arid vivarium plants.

Websites like Josh’s Frogs has suitable plants, and I particularly appreciate how The Bio Dude features a dedicated section for arid vivarium plants, making it easy to browse and select species that are well-suited to your vivarium's needs.

Local plant shops and nurseries can also be excellent sources for arid plants. These establishments often carry a variety of drought-tolerant species that are suitable for vivarium environments.

However, exercise caution when purchasing plants from local sources. They may have been treated with pesticides or fertilizers that can be harmful to your vivarium inhabitants, so you will want to clean them thoroughly.

Planting Tips

Planting your chosen vegetation effectively is essential for ensuring their health and longevity in the vivarium. Here are some tips to help you plant your arid plants successfully:

Choose plants based on the animal you will house
The inhabitants you place in the vivarium will greatly affect the types of plants you select. The larger the inhabitants, the hardier the plants will need to be. In general, leafier plants do not handle trampling as well, and you may need more hardscape to support larger animals.
Research toxicity if housing a herbivore/omnivore
Some animals may try to eat the plants, so make sure to avoid toxic plants. Do a quick Google search to determine if any of your plants are toxic if consumed. I recommend avoiding plants that emit a white sap, like most euphorbias.
Thoroughly rinse and clean your plants
Before introducing any plants into your vivarium, thoroughly clean them and their roots to remove any fertilizers and potential contaminants, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your pets. This is especially important if you are purchasing them from a plant store.
Surround the base of plants with rocks
To provide stability and prevent plants from being uprooted by digging inhabitants, surround the base of each plant with small rocks or gravel. This will help anchor the plants in place and create a natural-looking landscape in your vivarium.
Consider planting in pots
If you have species that are particularly prone to being disturbed by digging inhabitants, consider planting them in pots within the vivarium. This allows you to control the plant's environment more effectively and prevents it from being uprooted or damaged. It has the added benefit of easily swapping plants if you have a habit of killing them!

By carefully selecting and planting drought-tolerant plants in your arid vivarium, you can create a lush and visually appealing habitat for your inhabitants. Be sure to monitor the growth and health of your plants regularly and make adjustments as needed to ensure they thrive in their new environment.

With proper care and attention, your vivarium will flourish with vibrant greenery, adding to the beauty and complexity of your miniature desert landscape.

5. Heating and Lighting

Maintaining appropriate temperature and lighting conditions is crucial for the health and well-being of the inhabitants in your arid vivarium. In this section, we'll discuss the importance of these factors and provide guidance on selecting the right equipment to create a suitable environment for your arid species.

The Importance of proper heating and Lighting

Arid species are adapted to thrive in environments with specific temperature and lighting conditions, which must be replicated as closely as possible in captivity.

Proper temperature regulation is essential for metabolism, digestion, and overall health, while adequate lighting, including UVB exposure, is necessary for maintaining proper calcium metabolism and preventing metabolic bone disease.

Selecting Heating and Lighting Equipment

When selecting heating and lighting equipment for your arid vivarium, consider the specific needs of your chosen species. Key equipment may include:

Basking area
A basking area controlled by a thermostat provides a suitable hot spot for reptiles to thermoregulate and bask under. Ensure that the temperature gradient allows for a range of temperatures, with cooler areas for retreat. The most popular method is dome enclosure with ceramic heat emitters. Make sure to select the appropriate wattage.
Deep heat projector (DHP)
Another heating method is to use a deep heat projector to maintain ambient temperature levels within the vivarium. Like ceramic heat emitters, they providing warmth without emitting light. Based on my research, DHP appears to be a more natural and bioavailable method to deliver heat, though I have not personally used them.
UVB light source
UVB lighting is essential for most reptiles and other arid-dwelling species to synthesize vitamin D3 and regulate calcium metabolism. Ensure that your UVB bulb provides the appropriate levels of UVB radiation for your species, and replace bulbs regularly to maintain effectiveness. The compact fluorescent lamps have a bad reputation, so I would stick with the more traditional tube lights. There are also companies now providing UVB LED lights.
Plant light
Many arid plants require additional bright light to thrive. Supplemental plant lighting can be provided using fluorescent or LED grow lights to ensure that your vegetation receives adequate light for photosynthesis.

Temperature Gradients and photoperiods

To mimic natural conditions in your arid vivarium, it's essential to create temperature gradients and photoperiods that reflect the species' natural habitat.

Use a combination of heating and lighting equipment to establish a gradient of temperatures across the enclosure, with warmer basking areas on one end, and cooler retreats on the other.

Additionally, mimic natural day-night cycles by providing a consistent photoperiod with appropriate light and dark periods. If your lighting system doesn’t include a built-in timer, I highly recommend smart outlet timers to create an affordable and consistent photoperiod.

By carefully selecting and configuring heating and lighting equipment, you can create a comfortable and stimulating environment for the inhabitants of your arid vivarium, ensuring their health and well-being for years to come.

Regular monitoring and adjustments will help maintain optimal conditions and support the flourishing of both plants and animals within your miniature landscape.

6. Hydration in Arid Habitats

Water is a vital component of any vivarium, even in arid environments where it may seem scarce. In this section, we'll explore the importance of water in arid vivariums and discuss strategies for providing hydration to the inhabitants of these unique ecosystems.

Providing drinking water

While many arid animal species come from habitats with humidity levels averaging below 50%, they still rely on water for hydration, thermoregulation, and maintaining overall health.

Ensure that a water source is readily available and that it never dries out for too long. Even species from the driest of deserts need access to water and varying levels of humidity. Don’t forget to clean the water dish regularly.

Humid Hides and Gradients

Create humid hides within the vivarium, especially for species that require higher humidity levels to shed properly, as well as refuge for the cleanup crew (such as isopods and springtails).

These hides can be filled with moist sphagnum moss or substrate to create a microclimate with higher humidity levels. I will periodically ‘fluff’ the substrate and rehydrate it by pouring in some additional water.

Consider placing the hide in the cooler end of the vivarium to create a gradient from cooler and moister areas to warmer and drier regions. This provides inhabitants with options to regulate their hydration and thermoregulation needs.

Watering Plants

In addition to providing hydration for animals, don't forget to water the plants in your arid vivarium regularly. Many arid-adapted plants still require water to thrive, and maintaining their health contributes to the overall balance of the ecosystem.

Doing so helps keep the lower layer of substrate slightly moist at all times to provide a source of hydration for plants, as well as for burrowing inhabitants.

Occasional Light misting

While misting is often associated with tropical vivariums, it can also be suitable for arid setups. A light misting can add a touch of realism to your arid vivarium, replicating a morning dew that occurs even in desert environments.

Desert ecosystems do, after all, experience fluctuations in humidity based on seasonal changes and local weather patters, and a light misting can emulate these natural variations.

Observing your desert-dwelling inhabitants lapping up water droplets off the glass can be a rewarding sight. This behavior reflects their instinctual response to occasional moisture found in their environment.

Regularly monitoring and maintaining hydration levels will help contribute to the overall well-being of your ecosystem and its inhabitants.

7. The cleanup crew

In any vivarium, maintaining cleanliness and breaking down waste is essential for the health and well-being of its inhabitants. In this section, we'll discuss the importance of a cleanup crew in arid vivariums and explore some suitable species to fulfill this role.

Importance of a Cleanup Crew

A cleanup crew consists of various organisms that help break down organic matter, such as waste and decaying plant material, keeping the vivarium clean and balanced.

This does not mean you’re completely off the hook from removing waste, however. Larger inhabitants often produce too much waste for a cleanup crew to fully break down on their own. It’s recommended that you still manually remove waste, and leave the cleanup crew to the leftovers.

I like to introduce the cleanup crew several weeks before the main inhabitants to allow them to settle in and begin reproducing.

Selecting an appropriate Cleanup Crew

When choosing species for your cleanup crew, it's important to prioritize compatibility with the arid environment and the unique requirements of your vivarium's inhabitants.

Consider starting with a couple of species and observing how they do in their new environment. Some cleanup crew members may prove more successful than others, depending on factors such as substrate composition, humidity levels, and the presence of other inhabitants.

Regardless of the species you choose, it's important to provide access to water for your cleanup crew. This can be accomplished through moist hides or water dishes strategically placed in the vivarium. It is essential for their health, allowing them to perform their vital role in maintaining the vivarium's cleanliness.

A few species recommended for arid vivariums are:

Springtails

Springtails (Collembola sp.) are small, soil-dwelling arthropods that excel at breaking down organic matter. There are arid-specific springtail species available, but as mentioned, they still require a damp area to retreat to, such as under a water bowl or a moist hide, to thrive in arid conditions.

Isopods

Powder blue/orange isopods (Porcellionides pruinosus) are a popular choice for cleanup crews in arid vivariums. They are hardy and adaptable, making them well-suited to the dry conditions of the desert.

Armadillidium vulgare is another available species. Likely the most common isopod species in the world, it has spread throughout most of the US, Europe, and other continents as well. Their widespread range shows they're well adapted to a variety of conditions.

Mealworms

Available as most reptile stores, these beetle larvae are efficient scavengers and can help clean up waste in the vivarium. They thrive in drier conditions and will burrow into the substrate to feed and breed. Superworms work as well, too, though I prefer the smaller size of regular mealworms.

Both mealworms and superworms will eventually mature into beetles, and will reproduce on their own in the vivarium, providing a constant supply of young cleanup crew members.

Beetles

There are several beetle species that are we well-adapted to extremely arid desert conditions and are excellent scavengers.

Dermestid beetles (Dermestes sp.) and Buffalo beetles (Alphitobius diaperinus) are both efficient scavengers and can help clean up waste in the vivarium. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for arid environments. They also breed readily, so you will have a constant supply.

Blue death-feigning beetles (Asbolus verrucosus) are another option. They’re more expensive, and their beautiful pale blue exoskeletons make them a popular pet invertebrate. They may become an expensive treat for larger lizards, but they make great companions for scorpions because their hard exoskeleton prevents the scorpion from preying on them.

Roaches

Dubia roaches (Blaptica dubia) are another common cleanup crew option for arid vivariums. They are prolific breeders and efficient scavengers, making them an excellent addition. They are resistant to dehydration and can thrive in arid conditions.

By selecting and introducing a suitable cleanup crew to your arid vivarium, you can maintain a clean and balanced ecosystem while reducing the amount manual cleaning.

Monitor the population of your cleanup crew regularly to ensure that they are effectively managing waste and contributing to the overall health of your vivarium.

8. Maintenance and Care

Maintaining a thriving arid vivarium involves a combination of regular tasks and attentive monitoring to ensure the well-being of both plants and inhabitants.

In this section, we'll highlight essential maintenance tasks, offer tips for monitoring environmental conditions.

Maintenance Tasks

Frequent feeding
Monitor and feed your inhabitants according to their dietary needs. This includes both the primary species and the cleanup crew, ensuring a balanced and sustainable ecosystem.
Regular cleaning
Regularly remove any debris or waste from the substrate and clean the glass. This helps maintain a visually appealing environment and prevents the buildup of organic matter.
Consistent watering
Keep an eye on the plants and substrate to make sure the enclosure isn’t too dry for too long. Ensure the water bowl is consistently cleaned and topped up.
Occasional misting
Occasionally mist the vivarium just before lights on in the morning to replicate morning dew. This not only supports hydration but may also encourage reptiles to drink.

Monitoring Conditions

Humidity and temperature levels
Regularly check and maintain proper humidity and temperature levels. Ensure that the temperature gradients across the vivarium are suitable for the needs of your inhabitants.
Cleanup crew numbers
Monitor the population of your cleanup crew. Top up their numbers if necessary, as some reptiles may view them as a snack.

Care tips

Daily spot checks
Perform morning checks regularly to observe the behavior of your inhabitants. This is an excellent time to ensure everything is functioning as it should.
UV tube replacement
Replace UV tubes every 12 months to maintain optimal UVB exposure for your reptiles.

By incorporating these maintenance practices and regularly checking the health and conditions of your arid vivarium, you'll contribute to a sustainable and thriving ecosystem that mirrors the natural habitats of arid regions.

Remember that each vivarium is unique, and adjustments may be necessary based on the specific needs of your inhabitants and the evolving conditions of the environment.

9. Additional Resources

There are many different approaches to building arid vivariums, especially when it comes to constructing backgrounds and designing hardscape, so I wanted to include a few additional resources. You can also explore online forums, subreddits, and Facebook groups dedicated to vivarium enthusiasts.

Build videos

Majority of build videos on YouTube are for tropical vivariums, but there are still some great videos for arid vivariums. Here are a few that offer additional tips, creative ideas, and step-by-step tutorials to get you started:

Conner Long has a great 3-part series that walks you through his build process for his leopard gecko. Watch them all here:

Watch Part 1 Part 2 Part 3

SerpaDesign created an elaborate bioactive vivarium with a custom background for his bearded dragon Felix.

Watch on YouTube

Another build by SerpaDesign, this time for a group of blue death-feigning beetles.

Watch on YouTube

Articles

There are plenty of written articles all over the internet, including:

Vendors and Supplies

Lastly, I’ve created a list of vivarium supply vendors and products. These are all vendors and products that I have personally purchased from and have had good experiences with.

10. Conclusion

Congratulations on reaching the end of this guide on arid vivariums! We've covered a range of essential topics, from planning and creating the habitat to selecting suitable plants, lighting, and a cleanup crew.

As you embark on your journey into the world of arid ecosystems, here's a brief recap of the key points covered:

Research and plan ahead
Careful planning is crucial, involving research into specific arid habitats and selecting the right enclosure, substrate, and hardscape elements.
Select proper plants and inhabitants
Choose drought-tolerant plants and suitable species, considering their individual needs, to create a balanced and vibrant ecosystem.
Understand lighting and heating
Proper lighting and temperature gradients are essential for the health and well-being of arid species. Select suitable equipment and create conditions that mimic a natural environment.
Arid environments still need water
Despite the arid nature of the environment, water remains a crucial element. Ensure hydration for both plants and inhabitants through water dishes, humid hides, and misting.
Choose an appropriate cleanup crew
Selecting an appropriate cleanup crew helps maintain a clean and balanced vivarium. Consider the specific needs of species like arid springtails, beetles, and others.
Stay on top of maintenance and care
Regular tasks such as cleaning, watering, and feeding are essential for the ongoing health of your vivarium. Monitor environmental conditions and address needs promptly.

The journey into arid vivariums is an ongoing process of learning and experimentation. Embrace the opportunity to observe, adapt, and refine your setup based on the unique characteristics of your inhabitants.

As you venture further into the fascinating world of arid vivariums, remember that each setup is unique, and adjustments may be necessary over time.

Best of luck with your arid vivarium endeavors!

Questions or feedback?

Help improve this guide by reaching out or commenting below with questions or feedback.

How to Build an Arid Vivarium: A Comprehensive Guide