When setting up a terrarium, safety is one of the most important considerations. The materials you use should not only be visually appealing, but also safe for your reptiles, amphibians or insects. Some materials may contain harmful substances or have sharp edges that can injure your animals. In this blog, we will discuss which materials are safe and which ones you should avoid.
1. Safe substrate for your terrarium
The right substrate contributes to a healthy living environment for your animals. Choose a substrate that fits the natural habitat of your terrarium animals and that does not pose any health risks.
-
For humid terrariums : coconut fibre, peat, sphagnum moss and bark. These materials retain moisture and prevent drying out.
-
For dry terrariums : play sand, loam sand and calcium sand. Make sure the sand is not too fine, so that it does not end up in the respiratory tract of your animals.
-
For aquatic environments : river pebbles and aquarium sand. Avoid sharp stones that can hurt your animals.
Materials such as softwood chips, scented substrate and cat litter are unsuitable as they may release toxins or pose a choking hazard.
2. Safe back walls
A back wall gives your terrarium a natural look and offers climbing possibilities. Choose materials that are safe and durable:
-
Cork boards : lightweight, natural and easy to work with.
-
Tree bark and wood : give an authentic look and are safe when untreated.
-
Plastic back walls : make sure they do not contain harmful plasticizers.
-
Styrofoam with an epoxy or tile adhesive coating : provides a robust, safe structure.
Avoid back walls with paint or chemical adhesives as these can emit toxic fumes.
3. Safe decoration and hiding places
Terrarium decoration should be both functional and safe. Your animals use decoration to climb, hide or mark territory.
-
Wooden elements : cork, grape and mangrove are popular and safe choices. Make sure the wood is untreated and well dried to prevent mold.
-
Rocks and stones : Smooth natural stones and slate are ideal. Make sure they are firmly in place so they don't fall over.
-
Plastic shelters : make sure the material does not splinter and has no sharp edges.
-
Clay and ceramics : provide natural hiding places and help regulate temperature.
Avoid poisonous plants, painted decorations, and plastic materials with sharp edges or loose pieces that can be swallowed.
4. Safety of lighting and heating
A properly installed lighting and heating system is essential for the well-being of your terrarium animals.
-
Ceramic heat lamps : emit heat without light and are safe for nocturnal animals.
-
LED lighting : consumes little energy and does not emit harmful radiation.
-
UVB lights : essential for reptiles that need vitamin D3, but make sure the lights are not too powerful.
-
Heating mats and cables : always use a thermostat to prevent overheating.
Make sure that electrical wires are properly concealed so that your animals cannot chew on them or burn themselves.
5. Water sources and feeding bowls
Proper water and food supplies are essential for a safe terrarium environment.
-
Ceramic or glass water bowls : easy to clean and durable.
-
Unbreakable plastic : Choose BPA-free materials that do not release toxic substances.
-
Natural forage plants : make sure they have not been sprayed with pesticides.
Avoid metal containers that can rust and have sharp edges, as well as porous materials that can harbor bacteria.
Conclusion
Choosing safe materials for your terrarium is crucial for the health and well-being of your animals. Use natural and untreated wood, safe substrate, smooth stones, and safe decorations without toxins. Make sure that lighting and heating are properly installed and that water and food dishes are safe and easy to clean. By choosing the right materials, you create a safe and comfortable living environment in which your terrarium animals can thrive.
