Bioactive supplies guide
Everything you need to build and maintain a healthy, naturalistic bioactive enclosure.
A bioactive enclosure is a managed living system that combines suitable substrate, live plants, natural materials, beneficial microorganisms and a clean-up crew. When properly designed and maintained, these components work together to support the enclosure’s environment and help break down organic waste.
Bioactive does not mean maintenance-free. Regular checks, cleaning, feeding, watering and animal care are still essential.
Choosing the Right Bioactive Supplies
Every enclosure is different. The supplies you need will depend on the animal being housed, the enclosure size, ventilation, humidity, temperature and whether you are creating a tropical, woodland or drier environment.
Always research the specific requirements of the species before building the enclosure.
Drainage Layers
A drainage layer provides somewhere for excess water to collect beneath the main substrate. This can help prevent the substrate from becoming permanently waterlogged, particularly in humid tropical setups containing live plants.
A mesh or suitable barrier should normally be placed between the drainage layer and the substrate. This helps prevent the substrate from falling into the drainage area while still allowing excess water to pass through.
Drainage layers may not be necessary in every enclosure. The correct choice depends on the setup, watering routine and moisture requirements of the animal and plants.
Bioactive Substrate
Bioactive substrate forms the main growing and burrowing layer of the enclosure. It should support live plants, retain an appropriate amount of moisture and provide a suitable environment for the clean-up crew.
The correct substrate will depend on the species being housed. Tropical setups generally require a substrate that can hold moisture without becoming stagnant, while species from drier environments may require a more free-draining mixture.
Substrate depth should be suitable for the plants, animal and clean-up crew living within the enclosure.
Leaf Litter
Leaf litter is an important part of many bioactive systems. It creates natural cover, helps retain moisture and provides food and shelter for clean-up crew species such as isopods and springtails.
Leaf litter gradually breaks down and should be topped up when required. It can also provide enrichment and create a more natural appearance within the enclosure.Only use leaves that are known to be safe and have not been exposed to pesticides, chemicals or roadside pollution.
Botanicals
Botanicals include natural materials such as seed pods, bark pieces and dried leaves. They can be used to create hiding places, feeding areas and natural textures throughout the enclosure.
As botanicals begin to break down, they may also provide additional food for the clean-up crew.
Check all botanicals regularly and remove anything that develops excessive mould, becomes unsafe or is no longer suitable for the animal.
Cork Bark and Natural Wood
Cork bark, branches and natural wood can provide climbing opportunities, hiding places and visual barriers. They are useful for creating a more natural and enriching environment.
All wood should be suitable for enclosure use, securely positioned and strong enough to support the animal. Heavy pieces should not be placed where they could fall, shift or trap an animal.
The layout should also allow the animal to move freely and access the correct temperature, humidity and lighting zones.
Moss
Moss can help create damp areas and support humidity within suitable enclosures. It is often used around plant roots, hides and areas intended for moisture-loving clean-up crew species.
Moss should not be kept permanently saturated unless the animal and setup specifically require those conditions. It should be checked regularly and replaced when necessary.
Live Tropical Plants
Live plants can provide cover, climbing opportunities, shade and a more natural environment. Their roots may also help support the substrate structure.
Choose plants that are suitable for the enclosure conditions and considered safe for the animal being housed. Plants must also be strong enough for the species, particularly when used with larger or heavier animals.
New plants should be inspected before being added to an enclosure. Any unsuitable soil, fertiliser, pesticides or chemical residues must be considered and dealt with appropriately.
Clean-Up Crew
The clean-up crew normally consists of suitable isopods, springtails or a combination of both.
Springtails feed on mould, fungi and decaying organic matter. Isopods help consume decomposing leaves, animal waste and other organic material.
The clean-up crew must be selected for the temperature, humidity and conditions within the enclosure. They also require their own food, moisture, shelter and calcium source where appropriate.
A clean-up crew helps manage waste but does not replace regular enclosure maintenance.
Maintaining a Bioactive Enclosure
A bioactive enclosure should be checked regularly. Maintenance may include:
Removing uneaten food and large amounts of visible waste
Checking the animal, plants and clean-up crew
Monitoring temperature and humidity
Watering plants when required
Preventing the drainage layer from overfilling
Replacing or topping up leaf litter
Feeding and supporting the clean-up crew
Trimming or replacing plants
Checking wood, hides and decorations for damage
Cleaning water bowls and feeding equipment
Any waste that the clean-up crew cannot safely process should be removed manually.
Establishing the Enclosure
A newly built bioactive enclosure may need time to establish before the animal is introduced. This allows the plants to settle, the clean-up crew to begin reproducing and the temperature and humidity levels to be monitored.
Before introducing an animal, confirm that all heating, lighting, ventilation and environmental conditions are stable and suitable for the species.
Need Help?
Not sure which bioactive supplies are suitable for your setup?
Use the chat button on our website to speak with the Bio Forest team. Our live chat is open Monday to Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm.
Please tell us which animal the enclosure is for, the enclosure size and the type of environment you are creating so we can provide more relevant guidance.
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