Consider landscaping of the vivarium as more than a method of creating a hill or cliff with soil. Think of placement of the plants in relation to the hardscape so that a harmonious balance is reached; A uniformity of textures that offers something appealing to both the inhabitants and the viewers. 

Before getting into the details of vivarium landscaping, there are a few points that must be addressed regarding captive animals. It is important to learn about the species that you plan to bring home so that you can provide a healthy and enjoyable environment for it. Geckos, for example, are a common reptile sold in big chain and small chain pet stores. There are dozens of species of Gecko, distributed all over the world. Each one has different captive requirements, i.e. temperature, humidity, acidity, etc., that must be met in order to create and natural, and healthy habitat. Unfortunately, not all pet store owners and clerks even know where the species they stock are from! Let alone, how to care for them in captivity. This is rather alarming when you think about the number of amphibians and reptiles sold on a daily basis to unwitting purchasers. 

Diet and subsequent care of any animal must always be considered, as well, before purchasing. Some amphibians and reptiles will only accept live foods, which may not be practical for everyone. Many stores sell small amphibians and reptiles that would appear to be care-free, when in fact, they may be a very demanding species. So, size is not always reflective of requirements. Again, research should always be done prior to purchasing animals. You may find that a particular species of interest is not for you after all; or you just may find the perfect animal for your budget, schedule, and interest.  

One last note on animals in captivity. Captive bred species are always a better choice for keepers, which also benefits the species itself. The most common reptiles and amphibians are bred regularly in captivity, which reduces the need to capture wild caught animals, and promotes thriving populations in the wild. Also, captive bred reptiles and amphibians are always healthier than wild caught because they are not exposed to the same pathogens, predators, and pollutants as those in the wild. 

Think about the condition of the tank that this pet is coming from. Is it clean? Can you easily see the back wall? Does it look over crowded and dirty? Take into consideration though that some places are just busy. Even my vivs are dirty towards the end of a week. That happens. By dirty I mean is it littered with animals waste. Is there dead or decaying food items in there? Ever walk into a pet shop and see a dried-up-like-a-mummy frog or lizard? It’s strange to see because in order for it to look like that it would need to be dead for more then 48 hours. That’s just how things decompose. Mention it to the shop owner and remember things happen but remember also, the way they act when you politely and softly mention it to them. Are the shocked and upset but calm or are they nervous and frantic? The later indicates it maybe happens all the time so keep shopping. Online is a great place to learn about breeders and if you look hard enough you’ll find one that is good with their animals. It’s a plus and minus thing.

Start to think and plan about the kind of home your new pet should have. Others suggest something that is easy to clean, view your new pet and something that really reflects its natural beauty. In regards to housing there are many options. Review them all. Remember though, a sterile environment is for the scientist not you. Many have never had problems with taking a piece of hardscape and building a naturalistic vivarium for a fence lizard or dart frog. Some people chose to but grapevine in all it white glory but mold will attack the sugars that are present and…well. It won’t stay that nice looking very long if you have a humid tank. Just learn about the habitats of your animal and its needs. Make sure you provide UV lighting and a plant light that says “helps plants grow” isn’t UV. Buy a proper reptile light. If you have questions about the lighting requirements for your pets ask anyone mention in the pamphlet as lighting even for leopards is different then house lighting. There is a whole entire novel that could be written about setting up a living environment for reptiles and amphibians so do some good research and just remember everyone is different. Some have clean homes for their animals that include plastic plants and they change out the substrate, orchid bark, once a week. Others grow live plants and mosses or succulents and never change the soils. Either way your pet should be housed in something that safely and in a healthy way, reflects the home it deserves. Some people have asked for help with setting up a naturalistic vivarium for their crested geckos and some have asked for help with their green anole. Others have sent pictures of nice looking setups that include plastic or even potted plants. Just know what you want and ask many questions.
If you do some research and learn about your new pets natural home, you will enjoy your more. If you decided to buy your reptile or amphibian from a breeder rather then a commercial outlet you’ve shown everyone you care. If you decide to set up a naturalistic vivarium or a simple to maintain natural-like setting you’ve improved the quality of life for you pet. All this learning and such will prove to be a healthy decisions for whichever species that you own.

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