What Is a Paludarium
A paludarium is an enclosure with both aquatic (water) and terrestrial (land) sections. The water section may be 30–70% of the volume; the land section provides plants, hiding places, and habitat for semi-aquatic animals.
Common inhabitants: dart frogs, fire-bellied toads, anoles, mudskippers (brackish), small fish in the water section.
Tank Selection
Tall tanks (30+ inches) work better than long tanks. Vertical space allows plant climbing and animal use.
ExoTerra glass terrariums with front-opening doors are ideal. Standard glass aquariums work but require custom land barriers.
Minimum size: 18×18×24 inches.
Land Section
Build a slope from substrate that rises from water level to roughly 1/3 the tank depth.
Use egg crate, PVC pipes, or rock structure as a foundation. Cover with substrate.
Substrate options: ABG mix (atlanta botanical garden), coco fiber + sphagnum, or commercial bioactive substrate.
Water Section
Sand or aqua soil substrate.
Filter: small canister, internal filter, or sponge filter (depending on water volume).
Heater for tropical setups (78–82°F).
Plants
Aquatic: anubias, java fern, mosses (java, Christmas), small swords.
Emergent (water roots, leaves above): Cryptocoryne (most species can grow emersed), Anubias.
Terrestrial climbing: pothos, philodendron, monstera, ferns, bromeliads.
Mosses and creepers: spread across the land section over time.
Animals
Dart frogs (Dendrobates, Phyllobates): visually stunning, captive-bred only. Need supplemental fly cultures.
Fire-bellied toads (Bombina orientalis): semi-aquatic, easy to keep, vocal.
Pacific tree frogs: temperate-zone option.
Small fish in water section: white cloud minnows, danios, killifish (depending on temperature).
Maintenance
Misting system or daily hand-misting maintains 70–90% humidity.
Land substrate stays moist but not soggy.
Water changes: 20% every 2 weeks in the aquatic section.
Trim climbing plants monthly to maintain shape.