What is a Vivarium

By definition, a vivarium is a closed structure that is used for growing plants and sometimes housing animals (almost always reptiles). Vivariums are commonly used by scientists to watch and observe an animals behavior. They are also commonly used in museums and zoos to display certain animals. A vivarium must be see-through, and also have access to plenty of light.

Can I use a fish tank as a vivarium

Yes, you can absolutely use a fish tank as a vivarium. Fish tanks are great because they are see-through, and also have a strong structure which allows it to hold a lot of items inside. This is important because a vivarium can have a variety of things, including rocks, sand, soil, plants, branches, and animals. 

How to convert a fish tank into a vivarium

One of the most important things you need to remember when converting a fish tank into a vivarium is to thoroughly clean the fish tank beforehand. This is because a used fish tank can have a lot of harmful bacteria that can endanger both plants and reptiles that you plant on putting in the vivarium. You should completely empty the fish tank and thoroughly wash it with warm water. 

A vivarium requires a lot of light and heat. While some fish tanks do have strong built in lights, you will most likely have to buy some sort of light or lamp that can provide an adequate amount of light for your vivarium. Fish tank glass is also not as good at retaining heat, so you will probably need a light that generates a lot of heat. If you are using an external light, it is important that you find a way to have a day and night setting. During the night setting you should make sure that the light gets cut off. This is because reptiles need periods where there is no light so that they can sleep. Another way you can heat up your vivarium is by putting heat pads under the bottom layer of the soil or rocks. 

If you have both reptiles and plants in a vivarium, it is important that you regulate the amount of humidity in the tank. High levels of humidity can endanger both the reptile and plants.

If you are going to put a reptile in the vivarium, then it is essential that you have a covering on the top of the fish tank. This is so the reptile cannot escape, and also so no predators can get inside. However, you must make sure that the fish tank cover has adequate ventilation so that the reptile can breath.