We are dedicated to enhancing reptile and amphibian well-being through top-tier habitat solutions inspired by nature. Our terrariums and accessories are crafted to reflect the reptiles’ and amphibians’ natural habitats. Beyond just products, our goal is to enlighten hobbyists and professionals, promoting responsible care and ethical treatment. Our pursuit of product innovation and knowledge-sharing is geared towards setting a higher standard in herpetological care, bridging the gap between humans and the mesmerizing realm of reptiles and amphibians.
Incubator Pro
Precision Incubator with Humidity Control
Reptile UVB
Nano UVB Bulb (9W)
Sub Stratum
Bioactive Volcanic Substrate
Dart Frog Terrarium
Advanced Amphibian Habitat
So much light.
So much versatility.
So much light.
So much versatility.
The Exo Terra TerraSky is slick, versatile and powerful. It’s an advanced unit that provides the light energy necessary for ideal plant growth. Utilizing the latest LED technology, the TerraSky delivers an impressive output of over 100 lumens per watt. Its extendable brackets allow for compatibility with various terrarium sizes, enhancing its adaptability. The inclusion of a remote control enables users to effortlessly switch between presets, adjust brightness levels, alter the spectrum, and much more.
Optimal plant growth.
Enhanced activity.
Energy Efficient.
Powerful.
Versatile.
Care Guides
At Exo Terra, we understand that owning a reptile or amphibian is a unique and rewarding experience. However, it also comes with its own set of responsibilities. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive resource to help you navigate the intricate world of herpetoculture and provide the best possible care for your animals.
Whether you’re a beginner enthusiast or an experienced herpetologist, our academy offers a wealth of information, tips, and insights to enhance your understanding and skills in reptile and amphibian care. We cover everything from choosing the right habitat and selecting suitable species to creating optimal environments and maintaining proper nutrition.
Academy
Reptile keeping is a rewarding and fulfilling hobby requiring some basic knowledge and dedication. It is essential to understand the needs of the reptile species you are interested in keeping, as each species has unique requirements for temperature, lighting, diet, and enclosure size. In this section, you will find detailed information on the various species of reptiles commonly kept as pets, including their natural history, care requirements, and potential health issues.
We are committed to providing the most up-to-date and accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your reptile’s care. We encourage you to explore our articles and resources, and let’s learn about reptiles together! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced reptile keeper, we are here to support you on your journey of reptile keeping.
Expeditions
In contrast to other animal groups, reptiles and amphibians are neglected subjects for expedition studies. Very few reptile communities have been adequately documented concerning their ecological behaviour. A carefully conducted study lasting just a few weeks can significantly contribute to the pool of scientific knowledge for most species of lizards, snakes and amphibians.
Since reptiles and amphibians are neglected, their conservation is also often overlooked. Important sites with rare species or assemblages are destroyed or modified in detrimental ways simply because of the lack of knowledge and data. Conservation strategies rely on baseline biological data often missing for these groups.
Latest Articles
Bioactive
In the terrarium hobby, the bioactive approach focuses on creating a self-sustaining and ecologically balanced environment where animals, plants, microorganisms and substrates interact harmoniously to support one another's needs. The goal is to replicate natural ecological processes and interactions, resulting in a more balanced and stable environment.
Dragon Grub, not your average reptile food!
Insects make up a big portion of the daily food intake of Bearded Dragons and other insect-eating reptiles. The Dragon Grub formula from Exo Terra is an enticing insect-based reptile food, specifically formulated for insectivorous reptiles and named with Bearded Dragons especially in mind. It features Black Soldier Fly larvae that are not only tasty to your reptiles; but are high in protein and very nutrient rich, with an ideal calcium to phosphorus ratio! This diet also contains natural plant and fruit ingredients enriched with vitamins, minerals and other trace nutrients to ensure a happy, healthy reptile!
Heating
Reptiles and amphibians are ectothermic or cold-blooded animals. Unlike endothermic animals such as mammals and birds, these animals cannot generate their own body heat internally. Instead, they rely on external heat sources to regulate their...
How to set up a bioactive terrarium
Setting up a bioactive terrarium can be a rewarding and sustainable way to keep certain types of reptiles, amphibians or invertebrates. The concept of a bioactive terrarium is to create a self-sustaining ecosystem where the animals live alongside various microorganisms that help maintain a natural balance.
Impaction, a secondary condition
Gastrointestinal impaction in reptiles and amphibians is considered a secondary condition: it typically arises as a consequence of other underlying issues or conditions. The primary causes that lead to gastrointestinal impaction are usually related to the animal's environment (for example temperature and humidity), diet, or overall health.
Lighting
The Sun is the Earth's light source, providing visible light, heat, and the essential energy for biological activities. The sun's energy is indispensable, as it fuels all life forms on our planet. In its absence, the Earth would rapidly dissipate its energy, leading to the extinction of all life forms.
Nutrition
Understanding and providing the right nutrition is essential to ensure the longevity and vitality of your animals. To meet the nutritional needs of reptiles and amphibians, it's crucial to take the dietary requirements of each species, and the different stages of development into account.
On/Off, Dimming or Pulse Proportional?
Thermostats help us regulate the temperature inside the terrarium. There are plenty of choices available, and the wide range of possibilities is often confusing. Some Thermostats (like the Exo Terra 600W Thermostat) even allow you to choose between different options! To help you decide which one is the best in your situation, it is essential to know the characteristics of each type.
Paludariums
The word paludarium originates from the Latin word “palus” which stands for swamp. Paludariums are semi-aquatic terrarium habitats that replicate a rainforest, swamp or stream and can harbor aquatic as well as terrestrial animal and plant species. A paludarium combines the best of two worlds: an extra deep bottom allows you to incorporate a substantial water part or aquarium section adjacent to the land or terrarium section. A fully equipped and functioning paludarium is basically a small, closed ecosystem.
Role of the substrate
In a bioactive terrarium, the substrate plays a crucial role in supporting the overall health and functioning of the ecosystem. The term "substrate" refers to the material or layer on the floor of the terrarium where plants, microorganisms, and invertebrates reside.
Stone Desert
The Exo Terra Stone Desert mimics the natural soil found in arid regions, like deserts or savannahs. Most desert soils are not purely sand-based but rather a combination of sand, decomposed granite and clay resulting in interesting and sometimes colorful rock formations. Exo Terra’s Stone Desert allows you to create your own desert or savannah landscape, including cool-humid burrows as well as warmer elevated basking areas.
Substrates
Substrates play a crucial role in the terrarium setup: they contribute to the habitat and overall wellbeing of all the species inside the terrarium. With a wide range of functions, it is obvious substrates are not only serving decorative purposes.
Supplements: a crucial food component
Reptiles and amphibians have specific nutritional requirements that need to be met to ensure their overall health and well-being. One crucial aspect of their diet is the inclusion of added vitamins and minerals (e.g. electrolytes). These essential nutrients play a vital role in supporting various physiological processes and preventing deficiencies or imbalances that could lead to serious health issues.
Terrarium Types
Reptiles and amphibians thrive in terrariums that simulate their natural biotope. Mimicking their natural habitat provides numerous benefits: it is essential for their health, well-being, and overall success in captivity. To give you a head start in finding and creating the perfect terrarium, Exo Terra described a range of habitat setups upon which you can base your animal's ideal terrarium setup:
The Clean-up Crew
The clean-up crew consists of a group of small organisms that work together to break down organic matter, consume waste, and control the levels of debris and detritus in the terrarium. They contribute to the decomposition process, recycling nutrients back into the soil, which helps sustain the plants and other living organisms in the enclosure.
The Myth of Nocturnal Creatures and UVB Light
The belief that nocturnal animals don't require UVB exposure has been a long-standing one in the world of reptile and amphibian care. The argument, "It’s nocturnal—it doesn’t need UVB," has been a staple for many enthusiasts and breeders. However, recent scientific studies have begun to challenge this age-old notion, shedding light on the importance of UVB for all creatures, regardless of their diurnal patterns.
The Terrarium
Terrariums are small ecosystems with which we try to recreate the natural environment of specific species. It is a miniature world where animals and plants thrive, interact with their surroundings, resulting in a harmonious balance. The terrarium is without doubt the most important aspect of successful reptile and amphibian keeping.
Treats
Providing treats to your reptiles and amphibians offers several benefits. Keep in mind though, treats should only be given occasionally and in moderation. Too many treats can lead to nutritional imbalances or health issues, so they should never replace the regular balanced diet. Preferably, they should mimic the natural diet as closely as possible.
Understanding Ferguson Zones
The Ferguson Zones were developed in 2010 by Professor Gary Ferguson of the Texas Christian University. Ferguson and his team of herpetologists gathered data of the daily UV exposure of 15 species of reptiles. In the publication that followed, these 15 species were divided into four groups according to their thermoregulatory behaviour (daily sun exposure) and microhabitat preferences: the "Ferguson Zones". The corresponding UV guidelines were based on the average irradiance of randomly encountered wild specimens: Zone 1 with the least, to Zone 4 with the highest exposure.
Vitamin D3 and Reptiles: A Vital Connection
Vitamin D3 plays a vital role in the health and well-being of reptiles, much like it does in other animals. This hormone is integral to mineral metabolism and bone development in reptiles. One of its most significant roles is to enhance calcium absorption from the intestines. Without sufficient vitamin D3, reptiles couldn’t absorb dietary calcium efficiently, which is crucial for their skeletal health and overall well-being.
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