Bio Dude Unboxing Video w Bioactive Enclosure Setup

[@scottwhitemyer5501]

Dont forget the springtails and isopods, clean up crew is key to the plan.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I added dwarf whites and I have springtails on the way! :)

[@scottwhitemyer5501]

designing the enclosures for the different spiders will be a blast. great fun

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm hoping to have a couple shelves full of these enclosures. :)

[@JJDigitalartStudio]

people spoil their dogs, cats and potbellied pigs so why not give you T's a beautiful place to live.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Excellent point, Joyce! haha

[@sundevil2230]

Hey, awesome stuff, by the way, the leaf tip burn on the spider plants is from chlorine in the water. It should go away as they grow in the enclosure as you use bottled water. I’m also wondering if rabbits foot fern would work well, it is very hardy and I use it with snake plants a lot (not in an enclosure yet)wow! talk about being able to hide, that would be funny

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, James! We have well water, so hopefully that won't be an issue. And I will definitely check that fern out! I've been making a list of the plants folks are suggesting. :)

[@SilkMilkJilk]

haha very cool I remember asking Josh on his video to send a test bag for review to you! Not sure if I'm actually the one who triggered it, but I'm glad he did it. :-)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much for sending him my way! He definitely noticed the suggestion. haha So far, I'm loving his products. Really digging the substrate; I'm about to order 9 more bags. :)

[@SilkMilkJilk]

@@TomsBigSpiders Awesome! :-)

[@LoveAuntieJan]

I have black thumbs as well! If I look at a plant, it dies! So I sympathize! Good look, it looks great!! ❤️👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Ha! I'm so hoping that I don't kill all of these plants. haha

[@jonathanwright-goodison4041]

Looks pretty good for a first bioactive setup your T's will love it.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Jonathan! I'm getting a bit more adventurous with them now that I have a couple under my belt. :)

[@samanthabeau-gleur6566]

Hello Tom, I've been ill for months with fibro myalgia and lupus, your videos have not only cured me of lifelong crippling arachnophobia, but they have provided me with such therapeutic benefits whilst stuck in bed. I always watch them more than once. I'm so grateful to you for teaching us about understanding nature more and cherishing it instead of destroying it. I'm so looking forward to your latest videos and I'm so excited about your conversion to bio enclosures. Greetings to you and Billy and your family from Weymouth, Dorset, England!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Samantha! Awwww...that sounds terrible. I'm so sorry to hear that! And thank you so much...that is truly humbling. :) I do hope that you are feeling better soon! - Tom

[@MaximiliansMom]

I am so STOKED on this video!!!!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Christine! Thanks so much! I'm excited to be doing them! :)

[@ScorpionGod]

Nice balisong, great setup too.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks! I've had that one since 1989. haha. I have a much nicer Benchmade one, but that old knife is my favorite. :)

[@russellhummel9466]

Tom , She's BEAUTIFUL !!!! I have about half of my enclosures are bio active and I really enjoy creating them more like the natural habitats of my Ts. I also liked the natural water dish you used here. Very nice job !!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank so much, Russel! I'm having a great time with these! :)

[@russellhummel9466]

Tom , What I truly enjoy is that it brings out the CREATIVITY of us all who work with these habitats !! It's one of my PASSIONS !!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT !!! It's so relaxing and so stress relieving !

[@gbhil-yo]

Dude I've spent $6 modifying a filter because I'm cheap but also spent over $300 on aquarium "dirt" in the same tank. You do you

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Bahahahaha Thanks, Jerry!

[@bonsaipiper3773]

"As the dogs click in the background........ just because the are part of my videos." That had me laughing!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha. It wouldn't be one of my videos with that. haha Thanks!

[@rolandocaballero352]

Looks great for bioactive enclosure 🤙🏼✌🏼🙀

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Rolando!

[@sully7177]

I wouldn't worry about gbb. Falling mine webbed her exo terra so much she couldn't fall if she tried lol. Can't wait to see how the plants do . I've always wanted to use live plant but scared of swamping out my dryer t's.great video

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, she'll have a safety net in there soon enough. haha. Thanks so much!

[@markr1985lurchers]

Hi Tom . Amazing looking setups . I've returned to the hobby after a few years off and currently building my pokie collection, definitely going to try this for my p.regalis and the p.miranda I have coming soon . Keep the videos coming mate , you are literally my first port of call for any info I need ! Cheers from rainy Wales, UK. Mark

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Mark! Thank you so much! I have to do updates on these soon! My goal is to get some pokies in them as well. I have a large 12 x 12 x 18" that is just begging for one. Thanks again!

[@markr1985lurchers]

@@TomsBigSpiders perfect size for a regalis ! Get it done so I can pinch your ideas , my regalis is only 4 or 5 inches so you have a bit of time (no real rush 🤣😉) keep the pokie videos coming . Definitely my favourite.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@markr1985lurchers Bahahahahaha! That was actually the one I was eyeing for it! lol

[@love2rogue]

nice man, i like making custom enclosures out of random things its like a side hobby i have from raising slings, they dont all look great but its fun to make new enclosures :D

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you! Eventually, I would like to dabble in making my own enclosures. I just have to clean out my garage to make room. haha

[@andrewperez2901]

OMG, bio dude set you up, so jealous. Definitely gonna try bio dude products.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Andrew! I'm already planning an order... haha

[@LILBOOGsBUGCORNER]

Great Video Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much!

[@tennesseetarantulas5129]

Awesome. That looks amazing bud.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! Those plants should be smothered by webbing soon. haha

[@acesfan29]

Very cool bio-active setup, Tom. Someday, I may setup an enclosure for my T's. :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! It took me years to feel ready to try this, but man am I liking it. :)

[@thelavishlepidote8539]

I've planned to build a enclosure for my C. Cyaneopubescens, so I've got the acrylic sheets and everything I'll need. I want to make it bioactive so I already ordered isopods and springtails!! I'm so excited to build it, in the meantime I can watch this video :D

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, that sounds fantastic! Good luck with it!

[@thelavishlepidote8539]

@@TomsBigSpiders I build the acrylic enclosure already and my bioactive supplies are coming this week, thanks!

[@novicehiker6897]

Sweet, I have the bio dudes scorpion kit

[@TomsBigSpiders]

What species did you use it with? I'm planning on setting something up for my emperors. :)

[@novicehiker6897]

Tom Moran I have an Asian forest scorpion. I originally bought the curly hair one for my tarantula but it sadly died so I gave the enclosure to the scorpion

[@karolinastarantulas6244]

Really beautiful setup! 👌

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Karolina! :)

[@scottwhitemyer5501]

So glad you are doing this bioactive kit from Josh. I have made several enclosures with his stuff for frogs,bearded dragons and geckos, Love his stuff,!!!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Scott! Yeah, I'm totally loving this stuff. I'm having a blast with this. :)

[@amypalladino2584]

Im so sad that he doesnt ship to Canada. *sigh*

[@titaniumonkey]

Awesome setup.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you!

[@conchitamay4859]

Looking great

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Conchita! This enclosure is now completely webbed up and all of the plants have died. So much for that. haha

[@nicoledonohoe2808]

Tom that looks gorgeous Iam very interested in doing this I have 10 T’S and really would love to start doing this thanks for all the info !

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Nicole! I just set up my fifth. I'm loving them. :)

[@jorgeg922]

bio active terrariums work great with geckos and lizards, but I wonder with as much webbing as the GBB does and as dry as they need it if live plants will work, plants always need water and light, the GBB will cover the entire surface blocking most if not all light leaving dead plants underneath possibly trapping moisture... just a humble observation...

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yup, that's one of the things I'm wondering. I might end up pulling the plants out if it looks like they aren't doing well. I agree completely!

[@werner1]

I would love to get some live plants but I always worry that the plant could have some pesticide on it so I'm staying with fake plants unless I perhaps start from seed, Great video as alway's! merry christmas!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Werner! That was a HUGE concern of mine as well. I've been cleaning them off and letting them sit for a month or so before adding them to the enclosures, and so far I've had no issue. Thank you!!!

[@sandynix5268]

Wow, that is so beautiful! Not to compare with these plastic containers. I hope searching is over now and you have found the perfect substrate for your Ts. I‘m definitely looking forward to the next rehousings.☺️ Have a great weekend.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Sandy! Hopefully, this stuff works out well. I'm tired of experimenting with different types. haha

[@kyoukatsuariadust6744]

looks nice, well done. Would be nice if you could do a video about T's which are great for "display" :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! And I could probably do a video on that. :)

[@samanthabeau-gleur6566]

Wow she looks amazing in that new bio enclosure. Absolutely stunning home, it makes her look like a different spider. Good work Tom. Love that so much and it will obviously make a real difference to exhibiting her natural behaviour.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, I'm REALLY liking the bioactive enclosures. Thanks so much!

[@dboykinchen88]

So happy u made this jump. I love bioactive avic setups. For a T that's so cheap, u can make some awesome enclosures with bramiliads. There r a ton of T's that u can go all out with. Can't wait to see more updates. 👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Damien! So are, I'm loving these! I have four set up on a shelf right now, and they look stunning. What plants do you like to use?

[@dboykinchen88]

@@TomsBigSpiders I've only done a few Bio enclosures (none for T's), but the bramiliads we're my favorite. I also like vines (like creeping fig). I watch a lot of SerpaDesign. U should go down that rabbit hole 1 night. Just a warning, NOT ON A SCHOOL NIGHT! 😂. The stuff he does blows my mind. I've been watching him since he had about 300 subs. He's nothing short of amazing now. I learned a lot from him. Actually found the Bio Dude while watching Serpa. If u watch his stuff, let me know what u think. 👍

[@dboykinchen88]

kzbin.info

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! I just put a creeping fig in one tonight. Great to know! I'm watching him now. WOW.

[@dboykinchen88]

@@TomsBigSpiders Thought so 😂. Enjoy brother. Thx 4 all the knowledge u've giving me over the yrs. Glad I could give some back 😁

[@CoasterEnthusiast508]

Awesome awesome video my friend you got me thinking about doing something like this for our gbbs or our ornata when it gets to be an adult I look forward to the updates again this video was awesome different and that's what I love about it keep up the great work my friend

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, bud! Yeah, I definitely have to try a pokie in one of these. :)

[@CoasterEnthusiast508]

@@TomsBigSpiders if you do a pokie I'll be waiting for the video

[@trichobothria]

Beautiful!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you!

[@joellemegan2934]

I have 13 Ts and I have had nothing but mold issues here in SWFL. Ive actually have asked you about substrates before. Looks like I will be no longer purchasing and going Bioactive for the 13 that I do have. I do keep mostly Grammastola, Brachypemla and Apphopenhelma (I have no idea if I spelled that correctly lol) so we’ll see if it’s possible. I only have one moisture dependent and that’s the C. Lividum. Oddly enough she’s the only one who doesn’t get mold. I have no clue what I’m screwing up but hopefully going bioactive will help!! Can’t wait to see your updates.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

It's naturally very humid there, right? How is your ventilation? Are you getting the yellow stuff with mushrooms? So far, I've have no issues with these!

[@joellemegan2934]

Yes. Naturally humid environment. My ventilation is great. I have to use critter creepers from sizes varying in XS to XL. I even drill side vents in my CC!! I’m doing everything I can think of. Nothing yellow or growing. Is just white mold. It’s what I commonly see here in FL. Once a week I buy fresh flowers and that also gets the same white dusty mold that the spiders are getting. I did see one yellow spot ONCE. I did a rehouse right away. I think I’ll start by at least purchasing that substrate.

[@ericweis4114]

Nice job.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Eric! :)

[@ryanmack423]

Awesome brother I took a screenshot, so pumped to see your first one and can tell you had fun with it, amazing video

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Ryan! Haha. That was a lot of fun to do. I think that this is going to lead to a new obsession now. Hahaha You were SO right about these! :)

[@JHGSP]

Beautiful T and apart from the hair kicking she was very cooperative

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you! :)

[@michaelmartinson2781]

Welcome to bioactives. I love biodude's stuff; I'm very happy with how all his products have worked out in my vivs so far. I'll post pics in the fb group when I'm happy with the shots and ready for the lashing I will get (I use real wood, a lot). Something I've come to practice with my adult vivs, is giving the plants and micro fauna time to acclimate. Let the springtails and non-predstory mites bloom and then settle out. Once the habitat acclimates, its not so scary, haha. And to give you a warning, that bioshot has mycorrizal fungi, which might look like white fuzzy mold at first, but just give is a blast of water, it will make it's way into the dirt, and is fantastic for plant health. Best of luck, and looking forward to your updates as always.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Michael! I'm loving his stuff so far, and I'm having so much fun setting up the enclosures. I'm up to five now, and I'm about to place another order very soon. How long do you let them acclimate for? Thanks so much for the advice!

[@michaelmartinson2781]

@@TomsBigSpiders depends on what's in there, and how humid it is. I'm still learning, not an exact science. I have one enclosure that I planned for a year ago, it about 6 months old now. A new one is not as complicated, ill probably give the fern 2 more weeks to acclimate.

[@thejabisking5426]

I’ve been using Josh’s substrates and kits for a few years now and they’re outstanding. I’m using them for my king snakes, Pac-Man frogs, ball pythons and dart frogs. The terrariums look great and practically hands off for upkeep.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I will definitely try those out then. Thanks for the recommendation!

[@DrknessAfterDawn]

I love this. I have biodude for my crestie and use the bird nest fern also in my tropical cresti. I love it in there and a glad to see it works for arid setups too. I did want to warn the snake plant will get tall, like 4 to 5ft, but it's a super slow grower. I have one in my kitchen tha sits in a dark corner that I forget to water alot and it thrives well and has only grown an inch or two in the last year (it's about a ft tall max). Cause of my cresti i got biodudes terra Aranea when i bought my first T and am in love with it. I got a texas brown as my first (I'm actually local to bio dude in the Houston area and wanted my first T to be native to me). I've been too scared to plants in my setup but after watching yours i feel more confident. Congrats on your first bioactive!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! I've set up about 10 so far, and most are doing very well. I love that bird nest fern. Yeah, I saw that with the snake plants. Unfortunately, I think that I overwatered mine, and part of it has been dying off. I'm so bummed. I've let things dry out, and it appears to be coming around. Thanks again!

[@pgrvii6825]

Totally agree on playing with dirt and sticks it is satisfying. My first T.setup is also bioactive! Thanks for the great video Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh, it's so therapeutic! haha Thanks so much!

[@robinpinkham9398]

Really cool!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Robin!

[@badboybootz8]

Sick bro, can't wait to see the updates. I have 2 GBB slings.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

This one in this video I got as a sling. :) They are such gorgeous spiders.

[@mlt6130]

can I ask a update video link because Im new to his channel

[@CliffDaviszootour]

Its great to see enclosures you could be proud to show a visitor. Could you have split the plants into smaller plants?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Cliff! I already had impressed company this weekend. haha And that's a very good question. I thought about splitting them, but decided to put them in whole. I assume I could?

[@sammckee2836]

Beautiful! I'm curious to see how the plants fair with all the webbing. My C. cyaneopubescens is a big hair kicker as well, I could walk by his enclosure and he'll sit there and furiously kick hairs at me lol

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Sam! I have two girls, and they are the SAME way usually. You look at them the wrong way, and they kick. hahaha

[@MrTomkat030]

Sam Marie wow really!? I have three a sub adult female, suspect female juvenile, and 2.5cm sling... none has kicked hairs at me... Edit: well the two smaller ones has just from my own negligence. They haven’t since in now over 6 months, kicked any hairs... they are all relaxed and chill, until feeding time. Then it’s like a great white shark feeding frenzy.

[@sammckee2836]

@@TomsBigSpiders Hahaha, right? Regardless, I need to pick up a female of this species, definitely a must have imo

[@sammckee2836]

@@MrTomkat030 I've heard really mixed reviews on whether they're hair kickers or not. It really depends on the individual specimen. I'm glad that yours are well-behaved around you though!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@sammckee2836 You do! They really are stunning. :)

[@jnew42]

Great video, I cannot wait to see how the whole process works and goes. Thank you for the information and allowing us to benefit from your trail and hopefully minor errors.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Jon! I'll be interested to see how these work out myself. :)

[@Vanessa_Simone_In_Toronto]

I have just done a bioactive for my crested gecko. I did a lot of research and spent a long time getting everything prepared. It is far more difficult than it looks and I am disappointed so far. That's my impatience, though. Plus, I don't have a green thumb at all, and I have a poor record with keeping plants alive, so I constantly worry about them. I can tell you that the humidity is much better, though. I used net pots for the plants. That way, they're still mostly contained, but their roots can easily grow outside of the pot. Just in case I had to take them out at some point. I think my concern with a heavy webber would be that the webbing can literally pull the plant out of the ground if the root system hasn't been established well. Hopefully that doesn't happen. It looks great. If I had more room, I would consider doing up a couple like that.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, I was just commenting to Billie that I'm thinking this won't be a cakewalk. Everything is going well now, but it's only been a couple of weeks. I've heard some horror stories with bioactive enclosures that don't go as planned. And I'll will definitely get some of those nets...thank you!

[@PsyDexOfficial]

Love this set up mate, i look forward to the updates :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Thanks so much! This might have been a bad idea, as now I'm just walking around my tarantula room trying to figure out which other species I want to try this with. haha

[@PsyDexOfficial]

@@TomsBigSpiders haha id be exactly the same 🤣

[@candidwings5609]

Looking forward to the updates!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Shantelle! :)

[@makomarquis]

I love that you guys wanted to make a salad out of the fern. Great stuff

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha. It TOTALLY looked like lettuce. Thanks, bud!

[@edgufler1122]

Enjoyed the video very much Tom. Watched as I have my morning Coffee. Love the enclosure you made.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Ed! I've really been enjoying the bioactive enclosures. :)

[@systemdeadlock]

Damn that's a kicker

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Indeed!

[@Dovietail]

I have my doubts about green bottle blues in bioactive soil, because the habitat tends to be more moist. Will enjoy seeing how that works out for you. I have nhandus, lasiodoras, and a quite a lot of avic varieties on bio active soil.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

As do I, bud. I have a funny feeling that I'll be pulling the fern out of there in the very least. The webbing may also be an issue. I'm planning on doing one with my N. chromatus next. :) Thanks, Dovey!

[@trishvince1664]

I LOVE YOUR VIDEOS. BUT I AM STILL SCARED OF SPIDERS

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Trish! Awwwww...that's awesome! Well, the part that you can watch my videos and enjoy them...not the part about you being scared of them! I got my first years ago to help me get over my fear. Hopefully, someday you'll feel ready to get your own. :)

[@tarantulacollective]

I am very curious to see how this plays out. I have been considering getting some of these kits myself, but have been hesitatnt. I have a few bioactive enclosures for my T. blondi's, but havent been very excited about it. This set up looks really cool though and I love the way the GBB looks in there. I am looking forward to seeing how the plants will fair after she webs up her home. Are you planning, or is there a need with this type of bioactive setup, to include springtails and isopods?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

So am I! Hahaha This is one of the species that I was a little worried about trying one with because of the webbing. The T. blondi ones aren't working out for you? That was one of the species I was really hoping to try one with. Supposedly, this doesn't need isopods or springtails, but I'm going to add them. I have dwarf white isopods already, and I have springtails on the way!

[@tarantulacollective]

​@@TomsBigSpiders The t's are thriving...both just molted in last two weeks or so within a few days of each other and are putting on size fast. The spring tails and isopds are doing a great job cleaning up and seem to be doing fine. It is just the plants I cant seem to keep alive. I have tried moss and a few small plants. I may need to get some grow lights similar to what you are using bc I dont think they are getting enough light or a certain spectrum of light that the plants need. The last little plant I had in one of the enclosures she kept digging out or pulling up and piled dirt on it. I ended up just removing it bc she was working hard to destroy it. But these arent full grown adults, maybe I would have more luck trying it out in an adults enclosure.

[@Vanessa_Simone_In_Toronto]

@@TomsBigSpiders Springtails and isopods need humidity and moisture, though. I was told that the Dwarf Whites, which are the ones I'm using in my crestie's enclosure, need even more moisture than many other species. Isn't that enclosure going to be too dry?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@Vanessa_Simone_In_Toronto Sorry, Vanessa...I should have been clearer. I've set up three other enclosures that are all moist, and I'm going to be putting isopods in those. I was thinking of putting springtails in this one, but I'm worried about the dryness.

[@rachellehenson5568]

Gorgeous set up. Looks great with that GBB in there!! Can’t wait to see more set ups.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Rachelle! I've got two more set up, and I'm hoping to shoot the rehousings this weekend. :)

[@Dovietail]

You're gonna love the springtails! Totally get springtails. They are mold eating machines!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Dovey! I used them last year, but just didn't order more. I just got a bunch in, and I'm adding them to all the moist enclosures now. I can't wait! Thanks, bud!

[@19InCuBuS77]

Hey Bud :) This looks really awesome. A perfect place for a beautiful Spider. Please keep us updated on how this Enclosure will do. Keep it up. Greetings.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, bud! Hopefully, she doesn't web it all up immediately. haha

[@tonicoffin7706]

Incredible video and beautiful set ups. I love how it looks and can't wait to see the other set ups!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Toni! Just rehoused my O. philippinus into one today (and recorded it). I'm loving them. :)

[@zqspider]

That setup you created looks amazing!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! She's been sitting right out in the open on that cork bark...so picturesque! haha

[@leah66]

Niiiice! I’m a bio active keeper with my reptiles, and I’m slowly looking into doing it for some appropriate species Ts, so this is a perfect vid, as usual. Thanks Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's awesome! So far, I'm LOVING it. The setups are gorgeous. I'm excited to see if there are benefits beyond just the aesthetics. :)

[@leah66]

Tom Moran, benefits wise, I think you’d reduce your risk of mold/fungi with the clean up crew, which is a huge PITA for me in a more humid climate, so I’m looking forward to trying it. My reptile enclosures are pretty dialed in using this method, so I can imagine you’d see the same perks-little need for added maintenance, no need to remove poo/boluses, and all around aesthetics!

[@ztesch04]

Haha, I feel you on the black thumb. Cool video, I would like to try this down the road when some of my T's get bigger. Keep up the awesome work man.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

These plants are SO going to be dead in a week. hahahaha. Still, I'm excited to give these setups a try. :) Thanks again, bud!

[@ibnsarachnids9175]

Lol lettuce. I absolutely love your videos and I want to thank you. I've learned so much about my species and the husbandry on them from you. Until your videos the only species I knew about are Aphonopelma chalcodes because I grew up in Arizona. Thanks Tom!!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

It totally looked like lettuce. haha Thanks so much, Robert. My little Aphonopelma chalcodes just molted! Such a cute species. :)

[@ibnsarachnids9175]

@@TomsBigSpiders I went and looked at the enclosures you have shows and I like the BioDude setup. Next which or what do you suggest for P. Gigas and Lampropelma Violaceopes. Meaning, what size enclosures and which set up from BioDude?

[@debbiemcclure2874]

Very nice setups Tom. I know the T's will love them. Tyfs God bless you

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Debbie! Thank you so much! I can't wait to do more. :)

[@resin_Hd]

Found your channel thru the Dude. Been using his stuff for a few years. Love it. Subbed your channel.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm LOVING his stuff so far. I've already placed another order. Thanks so much for the sub!

[@periplanetamissionary]

Tom's Big Plants? I'd sub to that actually. Glad to see you getting into this aspect of the exotics hobby. I personally use t-5 HO/VHO lighting fixtures for good results with plants. Something to consider.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

No joke, Billie and I are really getting into the plants. lol And I will absolutely check them out...thank you!!!

[@aquasian21]

Awesome!! I love that you’re trying this and showing others how you do it from scratch! I keep mine bio along with my reptiles (although I don’t have I’ve plants in my T enclosures just yet). I can’t wait to see how this GBB gets on with this! The soil/substrate looks amazing! I was pleasantly surprised there wasn’t any dust! 😱 Really looking forward to this evolution of the hobby and your take on it Tom 💜

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Sian! I'm really curious to see how these turn out as well. This is brand new territory for me. I was shocked that their wasn't any dust. :)

[@JJDigitalartStudio]

Did you hear me shout YAY, doing the GBB first. Love the look of her new home.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahahahaha! I was WAITING for you to see this! :) Thanks, Joyce!

[@JJDigitalartStudio]

@@TomsBigSpiders One of the other reasons I have not gotten a GBB is they are hair kickers. I am allergic to everything on the planet as far as we know and that would not be a good thing.

[@vitorcaparroznunes4756]

What a nice video! tks for sharing this. One thing that would be very nice to see is how you mantaing the humidity of this dry bioatictive enclosure. would help a lot! Will you put some springtails in this one? Thanks

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I could definitely do that in an update. And I just ordered some springtails (more for the moist set up I'm about to do). Thanks!

[@vitorcaparroznunes4756]

Tom Moran Thank you ! 😁

[@ARa66]

Show off ,with that butterfly blade,.. 😂🤙🏾🤙🏾

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha!

[@codystarantulas2845]

Isopods and spring tales will help out a tone

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Will they survive in the drier enclosure? I have them in the moist ones. Thanks!

[@codystarantulas2845]

@@TomsBigSpiders the isopods should the spring tales may not but isopods will plus there are quite a few species I use wild pill bugs as we call them here that I fought and breed and I just fill a cap full of water for them and they do good I also give them leaf litter to eat on but they will eat ur tarantulas leftovers as well

[@codystarantulas2845]

@@TomsBigSpiders and when u do a tropical bioactive setup both spring tales and isopods will do amazing... My pink toe likes to munch on my isopods Frome time to time as well idk why though it gets a healthy diet of roaches and crickets

[@tink2276]

Enjoyed this video Tom. I’m looking to do my first bioactive. It’s just so daunting though. So many things to take into consideration.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much! Yeah, I agree completely. Just be prepared that there is a learning curve, and don't give up if things don't go perfectly the first time around. When I post my update, you'll see that I definitely had mixed results.

[@jamesbosslet994]

Looks amazing, awesome video. I am impressed with bio dude products. I plan on setting up a few bio active enclosures, i am excited that you are using 5 different species, can't wait for the updates. I agree, you will need some money up front, but its only for a few T's you want to showcase not your whole collection. In my opinion the substrate is not that expensive, if it works.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, James! Thanks again for sending the Bio Dude my way! Yes, it will definitely cost a bit, but they look so darned nice. And, if half of what I hear about the bioactive enclosures is true, then it will be a potentially healthier environment for the tarantula. And I agree about the cost. After what I went through with the topsoil and the issues with coco, I do not mind paying more for good dirt. Thanks again!

[@jamesbosslet994]

@@TomsBigSpiders your welcome, i respect your opinion, and you have the experience to recognize bad.substrate!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, James. I really appreciate that! :)

[@Krb4619]

Love that you are doing this, I also run bioactive enclosures and they look so much nicer

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Bev! Which plants are you using in yours? :)

[@Krb4619]

I use pothos, Fittonia, Dracaena, various lowlight Lillys (they look like striped grass), sorry I don't know the common names for all as I am in Germany. For terrestrials who like it dry I use airplants , they don't root, so can be moved and absorb moisture from the air, plus make excellent anchor points for webbing, enjoy!

[@Philboi28]

Wow love it 👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, bud!

[@rodneynewcomb8818]

Love it. How is it going with the bio set up? Really want to get into this for all my little 1s when they grow up.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Rodney! Hahaha Not so well. lol The plants lasted about a year before the webbing eventually killed them.

[@gator5566]

Thumbs up for this video it was on my b-day😁😁😁😁

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Happy Belated Birthday! :)

[@gator5566]

@@TomsBigSpiders lol thanks man... if I post a quick video about my Mexican red rump tarantula and his health will you watch it he hasn't shed in a while it's a he or she I don't know Cut the rump has no hair on it and doesn't eat too much I'm curious whether he or she is dehydrated happy or just kicked all the hairs on rump

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@gator5566 Of course! Just hit me up with the link when it's up!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

@@gator5566 I'll be online for the next hour, so I'll keep a lookout for it.

[@gator5566]

@@TomsBigSpiders ok ty

[@72spikey]

Great video! Your thoughts on top ventilation instead of side ventilation? I wan to start gathering all items especially from Biodude to rehouse my Theraphosa Stirmi into a 20 gal aquarium. I know side vent is better but cutting glass is a nightmare and custom acrylic enclosure cost an arm and a leg plus a kidney lol... thanks!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

First off, I'm so sorry for the late reply! I prefer cross ventilation, but the top ventilation seems to be fine with these. It must means the moisture evaporates a bit more quickly.

[@veesentdaysendz8113]

Awesome video!!! So do you prefer The Bio Dude trantula substrate over Lugarti’s???? Is it better??

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! And yes...absolutely. I love the mix of it.

[@bonniehawkins2979]

Love this. You are reaching out to do something different. Wonderful. :))

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Bonnie! :)

[@SpiritsEnchantments]

Hi Tom, have you thought of using air plants for the more arid enclosures?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh, I'm definitely eyeing them! I just wanted to so some research first. They look incredibly cool!

[@MrDrinkblood]

Nice set up Tom but you put a GBB in the enclosure :O In one week those plants will not be visible lol cant wait to see more nice setups!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Believe me...I know! hahaha. That was one of the reasons I wanted to try it with that species. I'm not convinced that it will be practical. :) She's only been in it for about three days, and she's already webbed a little area between the plants and the cork. lol Thanks so much!

[@jessereisenauer5503]

I have seen your best beginner T"s and am trying to convince my parents to let me get one. Also I subbed 😁

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much for the sub! Do you know which species you're looking at? Are they open to the idea?

[@jessereisenauer5503]

Sorry for late reply I like gbbs and rose hairs or a pink toe they don't really like Ts but they let me get a leopard gecko so when I move out I'll get one probly

[@SilkMilkJilk]

@@jessereisenauer5503 just get a Cyriocosmus, they won't even notice you have one haha ;-)

[@jessereisenauer5503]

@@SilkMilkJilk hahaha 😁

[@ChantalsCritters]

Looks great but wont see the plants for long with a gbb

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Channy! Yeah, that's what I'm figuring. haha

[@Lisa-eu9fy]

Great! 🕷🧡💙💚🕷

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Lisa!

[@1982boltman]

Great video. I’m very interested in these natural enclosures. Will it require any spring tales or anything like that or is that bioshot all that is required?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Thomas! I plan to add springtails to the more moist enclosures.

[@1982boltman]

Tom Moran Thanks!

[@LadyGeckoFoot]

Do you plan on adding insects/bugs (springtails and isopods) to help break down biologicals and a drainage layer?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I DO have some springtails ordered for the more moist enclosures. As for the drainage layer, supposedly this doesn't need one.

[@LadyGeckoFoot]

A drainage layer might be something to consider. It gives excess water a place to go in case of over watering. While I know it's not the same, I have several snakes and lizards in bioactive vivariums, and even the drier enclosures will accumulate water - usually after watering plants.

[@cartermayer676]

A drainage layer shouldn’t be necessary in a setup that will likely be staying primarily dry. As for the plants, the sansevieria may be ok in this setup as they can handle drier conditions, but not sure about the bird nest fern. While Asplenium nidus (bird nest fern and it’s cultivars) is ok drying a little between waterings, they do prefer at least slightly moist conditions and good humidity. I have 4 or 5 various Asplenium species/varieties - they’re one of my favorite plants. Love you videos, Tom. I’m an old hat at the world of plants, but am new to the world of Ts. Learning a lot from you! Thanks for so proactively sharing your knowledge and experience!

[@SilkMilkJilk]

@@LadyGeckoFoot no tarantula that I'm aware of would need such a humid environment that would require a drainage layer. There will never be excess water with a T.

[@peachxtaehyung]

@@SilkMilkJilk in case you over water or if the water dish gets spilled etc

[@riddermichi]

you forgot about one of the most important parts of bioactive setups. Springtails and isopods!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I have dwarf whites in it now, and I have springtails on the way! :)

[@amypalladino2584]

Great vid. Newer watcher of your channel. I never thought Id be interested in Tarantula's but they are fascinating. I love bioactive setups, its just too bad the conversaion rate for us Canadians sucks lol. Im doing research galore and hoping in the future to get a Grammostola Pulchra, what size enclosure would you recommend for their adult size?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Amy! Have you checked out Tangled in Webs? My buddy, Ryan, runs it, and he does a LOT with bioactive enclosures. :) That species would do well in something 5-10 gallons or so.

[@amypalladino2584]

@@TomsBigSpiders I will check it out. Thanks muchly. I actually have two 10 gallon tanks already so that's awesome

[@daviddirienzo3432]

Hey Tom love the channel, what are your thoughts on cactuses?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, David! Ones without prickly and potentially dangerous spines would be fine. I was actually eyeing some at Home Depot that would have looked nice, and they didn't appear to have sharp spines.

[@amalali603]

Hi Tom, I'm considering a similar set up for my GBB and wanted ask you how this set up is going? Did the plants make it? I already got the snake plant but no luck with the other one. Got a Golden Pothos that I'm hesitant to use with the GBB what do you think? better keep the pothos for another set up??

[@tarantulaswithbrachypelmam8016]

Damn, they do look nice. But no plant survives long with me xD I have the blackest of thumbs.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

These plants aren't going to survive ME! hahaha. Yeah, I'm guessing that the webbing will end up doing them in. lol

[@tarantulaswithbrachypelmam8016]

@@TomsBigSpiders I was going to say. How are you palnning on tending those plants once the GBB wrapped them up all nice? xD

[@TomsBigSpiders]

We'll see how it goes! I might be pulling them out if they don't do well.

[@kristianxoto]

first time I am infront of u, hehe :P I started with bio because I wanted it "pretty" :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

HA! You totally are! This is brand new territory for me! Now I want them "pretty", too! lol

[@jeffmooney3991]

How is this setup doing. I have been buying reptisoil, and my setups are just smelling moldy trying to get away from it. Also what issues did you have with coco fiber i was gonna go with that, but now am second guessing it. So this bio dude may be the way to go

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Jeff! Here's a link to the update video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iX-bqYtoaLuCmdk With the coco fiber, it doesn't hold moisture well, I tend to get a lot of fungus outbreaks in it, and it tends to be a bit fluffy for the burrowers. It works, and I used it for quite a while, but I've found that other substrates work better (especially in mixes). Hope that helps!

[@mbdieter7308]

That fern is so pretty, it's going to be shame to see it covered by webbing.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

We'll see how it goes. If it looks like it isn't going to do well, I'll pull it out. It's a gorgeous plant!

[@SteveMcT]

Are you using a grow light for the plants?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Steve! I have several lights placed around the room, yes. I just don't have them directly on the tanks.

[@PredictableEnigma]

Do you have any thoughts on this set up 5 months later? I can only find reviews of his humid arboreal tarantula kits, not the arid terrestrial ones! Obviously it looks great, but has it held up for you?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm working on an update video on it. Man, I didn't realize that it was already 5 months. I love it. The only issue is that she webbed all over everything. Still, it looks great and the plants are still doing well.