Open Canvas

Starting to put contents into a microhabitat build can be a daunting thought, but it is an opportunity to let your creative juices flow into a range of possibilities.

Let's point you in the right direction!

1. Think '-ariums'

   
   

   Terrarium (land and plants), Vivariums (land only), Paludariums (land and water) or Riparium (stream edges).

   
   

   Different builds are suitable for each style.

   
   

   Which one does your forever-friend benefit most from?

   
   

   Do your research of their wild habitat online

Bioactive Vivarium

2. Plan It Out

   
   

   Draw a sketch of your final product or sketch it in stages for a more detailed approach.

   
   

   Procreate, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop are design software that can be used online for a more creative finish.

Blueprints On Desk

3. Gather Materials And Tools

Retailers, such as Amazon or the Shop application, can provide all you need to start your construction.

Depending on your chosen  '-arium', it can involve a lot of DIY to form your final vision but you will find everything on said retail sites.

Aquarium-Safe Expanding Foam Could Be A Priority For Your DIY Build

4. Simple Order Of Operations And Checklist

   
   

5. Build your enclosure if necessary.

   
   

6. Drill holes for heat bulbs, ventilation, drainage or misting system if required.

7. Start and finish process of making paludarium/riparium bespoke foundation design.

   
   

8. Fit electronics in desired locations.

   
   

9. Build or attach your background(s) with/without decorations (logs/branches/hides/vines/moss/live or plastic plants).

   
   

10. Drainage layer

    
    

11. Lay substrate with any leaf litter, charcoal or other nutrient-friendly additives mixed in.

    
    

12. Add your remaining decorations on top of substrate.

    
    

13. Live or plastic plants

    
    

14. Add additional moss to remaining to other surfaces.

14. Add further leaf litter to surfaces that are not covered

    
    

15. Add clean up crew and a small food source for them

    
    

16. Make any necessary changes to design including adding more plants or moss

The above list is a methodical approach and shows the optimal window of completion without interruption from other stages.

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To make something from scratch, with basic tools, is the most beneficial feeling in the world and your herpetiles will thank you for it!

Happy Iguana Basking In The Sun