Looks do not define a naturalistic enclosure. In essence, the goal is to make a self sustaining micro habitat. While that would be the perfect setup, we can only come close; thus some maintenence still exists (Feeding, cleaning ect.)



Real plants are a requirement. Microbes are a requirement. Bugs are nice (non-parasitic of course ) Running water is nice, but not a requirement, and as mentioned, is contraindicated in some desert species. The fullest light spectrum possible is also necessary (plant and animal health).



All in all, the enclosure will clean itself. Visit the dart frog forum if you're in need of more detail. Often several years will go by without a full cage cleaning. Obviously as the animals get larger, the size of the enclosure must grow exponentially to maintian an equalibrium. When this is no longer practical, maintenence must increase in the form of spot cleaning. Many species are just ill suited for naturalistic vivarium for most keepers. (Large varanids, large chelonians, "messy snakes like cobras and indigos).



The benefits are often obvious but not hard to imagine. The herp feels like it is at home and not contained. I have a recent experience of noticing some new, natural behavior when I moved my gargoyle gecko into a naturalistic forest vivarium. Head down, body pressed to the branch, and the tail out at an angle to look like a twig. Neeto



Ian

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