If you’re planning to care for a pet reptile and are wondering where to get started in regard to their enclosure, then you’ve come to the right place. This guide was put together by our team of experts to provide you with everything you need to know about reptile enclosures, also known as vivariums.
On this page,we’ll be answering the following questions:
- What is the difference between a terrarium and a vivarium?
- What types of reptile tanks are there?
- What size reptile tank do I need?
- Where is the best place to buy reptile enclosures?
Terrarium vs Vivarium: What’s the Difference?
The primary difference between a terrarium and vivarium is that terrariums are mostly used to raise plants, as vivariums are used to house pet reptiles and amphibians. However, many pet owners refer to their enclosure as a “reptile terrarium,” so it’s okay to use the phrases interchangeably.
Other phrases that are used in place of vivarium and terrarium include:
- Enclosure
- Tank
- Habitat
- Aquarium
What Type of Reptile Tanks Are There?
When it comes to the different styles of reptile enclosures, you have a few solid options. Each one comes with its own set of pros and cons, and they all vary in durability and price.
Wood Terrariums
Pros
- Lightweight
- Inexpensive
- Easy to customize
Cons
- Limited ventilation
- Easily overheat
Wood terrariums are a popular choice for housing pet reptiles due to their natural aesthetic and durability. These terrariums are typically made from high-quality wood, such as oak or maple, which has been treated to resist moisture and prevent rotting. They often feature large glass panels on the front and sides, which allow for easy observation of the reptiles inside.
One of the main advantages of using a wood terrarium for pet reptiles is their ability to provide a more natural environment. Wood is a material that closely resembles the natural habitats of many reptile species, and can help to create a comfortable and stress-free environment for them. Additionally, wood terrariums can provide better insulation and temperature regulation compared to other materials, which is especially important for reptiles that require specific temperature and humidity levels to thrive.
Overall, wood terrariums are an excellent option for pet reptile owners who want to provide a comfortable and visually appealing living space for their pets.
Glass Terrariums
Pros
- Great visibility
- Durable
- Great ventilation
Cons
- Frequent cleaning needed
- Heavy
Glass terrariums are a popular option for housing pet reptiles due to their transparency, durability, and ease of maintenance. These terrariums are typically made from thick, high-quality glass, and feature a screen top to allow for proper ventilation. They often come in a variety of sizes and shapes, allowing for customization to suit the needs of different reptile species.
One of the main advantages of using a glass terrarium for pet reptiles is the ability to observe them easily. The transparent walls allow for clear visibility, which is especially important for monitoring the reptiles’ behavior, health, and overall well-being. Additionally, glass terrariums are easy to clean and maintain, as they do not absorb moisture or odors like other materials. They also provide a stable environment for reptiles that require specific temperature and humidity levels to thrive.
Overall, glass terrariums are an excellent choice for pet reptile owners who value visibility, durability, and easy maintenance. With proper setup and maintenance, they can provide a comfortable and safe living space for a wide range of reptile species.
PVC Reptile Enclosures
Pros
- Lightweight & durable
- Highly customizable
- Wide variety of shapes and sizes
Cons
- A bit more expensive
- Can warp over time
Custom PVC reptile enclosures are a popular choice for pet reptile owners who want to provide a highly customizable and durable living space for their pets. These enclosures are typically made from a lightweight but sturdy PVC material that is resistant to moisture, mold, and other environmental factors. They often feature a variety of customization options, including different sizes, shapes, and ventilation configurations.
One of the main advantages of using a custom PVC reptile enclosure is the ability to create a highly specialized living environment for different reptile species. These enclosures can be designed to meet the specific needs of different types of reptiles, including temperature and humidity control, substrate requirements, and other important factors. Additionally, PVC enclosures are lightweight and easy to move, making them a convenient option for pet owners who need to transport their pets or move their enclosure to a different location.
Overall, custom PVC reptile enclosures are an excellent choice for pet owners who want to provide a high level of customization and durability for their pets. With proper setup and maintenance, these enclosures can provide a comfortable and safe living space for a wide range of reptile species.
Reptile Tank Sizes
Reptile enclosures come in all shapes and sizes. As you scale up in size, tanks tend to increase in internals of 5 to 10 gallons. As a general rule of thumb, these are the primary reptile tank sizes that you will come across:
- 10 gallons
- 15 gallons
- 20 gallons
- 30 gallons
- 40 gallons
- 50 gallons
- 75 gallons
- 80 gallons
- 90 gallons
- 100 gallons
- 125 gallons
- 200 gallons
What Size Reptile Tank Do I Need?
Below is a tank size guide for some of the most popular pet reptiles. When in doubt, it’s always better to have too much room than too little.
| Reptile | Minimum Tank Size | Ideal Tank Size |
| Anoles | 10 gallons | 20 gallons |
| Frogs (Most Species) | 10 gallons | 20 gallons |
| Leopard Geckos | 20 gallons | 30 gallons |
| Skinks | 20 gallons | 40 gallons |
| Corn Snakes | 20 gallons | 40 gallons |
| Chameleons | 30 gallons | 50 gallons |
| Ball Pythons | 30 gallons | 70 gallons |
| Bearded Dragons | 70 gallons | 125 gallons |
| Turtles & Tortoises | 75 gallons | 125 gallons |
Where is the Best Place to Buy Reptile Enclosures Online?
Most reptile stores sell tanks alongside their pets, but not all are created equal. Some online reptile stores offer better quality products than others, and pricing for these types of materials are always competitive.
If you’re looking for the best place to buy a reptile tank online, then we’d highly recommend shopping at Custom Reptile Habitats. They feature a massive selection of custom-made PVC enclosures that sell for a fair price. They’re a highly-reputable store that makes all of their products right here in the US. They also have the best selection of large reptile enclosures on the market, with some of their options measuring up to 8 feet!
If you’re looking for a simpler option, such as Amazon, then we’d recommend one of the following three enclosures:
Reptile Enclosures FAQ
What reptile tank is best for my pet?
This depends on the type of pet you have, as the answer varies based on that information. Be sure to refer to our size chart above.
What is the difference between a terrarium and a vivarium?
Terrariums are typically used to grow live plants. Vivariums are used as enclosures for pet reptiles and amphibians.
What type of reptile tank do I need?
Whether you choose wood, glass, or PVC is based on your personal preference and budget. They each have their own pros and cons, but can be made to be compatible with most pet reptiles.
Can I make my own custom reptile enclosure?
If you know what you’re doing, then absolutely! You can always make your own DIY reptile enclosure, but be certain to build it durable and escape-resistant.
