Did You Know?
Discover the World of Miniature Ecosystems
Not every glass ecosystem is a terrarium. Terrariums, vivariums, paludariums and ripariums are designed around different environments and inhabitants.
Plants • Moss • Soil • Rock • Wood
Terrarium
A Miniature World of Plants
A terrarium is primarily a land-based planted ecosystem inside a glass enclosure. Mosses, miniature ferns and tropical plants can create a tiny living landscape, with closed terrariums recycling moisture through condensation.
Plants • Animals • Natural habitat
Vivarium
A Living Habitat
A vivarium is designed to recreate a natural habitat for living animals, often incorporating live plants, natural substrate, lighting, humidity and ventilation. They are commonly designed for reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
Land • Water • Plants • Aquatic life
Paludarium
Where Land Meets Water
A paludarium combines terrestrial and aquatic environments within one enclosure. Think of a miniature tropical riverbank, wetland or rainforest edge, with plants growing above and around a permanent water section.
Water • Emergent plants • Riverbank
Riparium
Life Along the Water's Edge
A riparium recreates a riverbank or shoreline environment, emphasizing water with plants growing above or emerging from it. Unlike a traditional terrarium, the aquatic area is a major part of the display.
How they compare
| Terrarium | Vivarium | Paludarium | Riparium | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Land | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | Limited |
| Water area | — | Optional | ✓ | ✓ |
| Plants | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Animals | Optional | ✓ | Optional | Optional |
| Main focus | Plants | Habitat | Land + Water | Water's Edge |
Which living world is right for you?
Whether you want a miniature forest, a natural animal habitat or a dramatic land-and-water ecosystem, TerraScaape can help you create it.
TerraScaape — Bring Nature Indoors.