How to setup a Bioactive African Fat Tail Gecko Terrarium - Self Cleaning and Maintaining

One of the most requested videos has finally been done. I would like to thank Heather for providing such a beautiful African Fat Tail Gecko for this video! In this video the Bio Dude goes over step by step on how to setup your African Fat Tail bioactive kit as well as what each component does, how it works and overall maintenance and care of this awesome species. The Dude utilities his one of a kind, hand crafted Terra Firma substrate that utilizes the Dude's bishop to drive the natural, organic processes that create the bioactive ecosystem. This is a fully self cleaning, self maintaining bioactive terrarium. The brand terrarium is an Exo Terra, 36” x 18” x 12” model.
Fat tails are big babies with HUGE personalities! Commonly imported but are great for beginners and do great in bioactive vivariums.
www.thebiodude.com/pages/sear...
- Website: www.theBioDude.com
- Facebook: / thatbiodude
- KZbin: / @thebiodudejoshhalter
- Instagram: @TheBioDude
- TheBioDude Location: The Bio Dude Inc Houston 15116 Highway 3 Bldg 4 Webster, TX 77598 Phone: [phone] Email: [e-mail]
The Dude Abides

[@willc2684]

You are making a big impact on thousands of animals, you are soooooooo amazing 🦎🐍🐢🦗🦂🕷😀😀

[@parkertotty]

BW FISHING more like millions, he’s a beast

[@judithgarcia6829]

Yes 🐶🐱🐭🐹🐰🐯🐼🐼🐻🦊🦁🐮🐷🐽🐸🐒🐣🐔🐧🐥🦆🦅🦉🦇🐝🦄🐴🐗🐛🐜🐞🦋🐛🐌🐢🐍🦎🌳🍀☘️🌲🌿🌱🍃🌴🎍🌵🎄🌲🌳🌹🌻🌼🌸🌺🐚🌾💐🌷🌹🍄🍁🍂🍃🎋

[@KainoaBlackeagle]

Whooo! That enclosure is so appealing, I wish I was that fat-tailed gecko! Awesome bio crib!! Josh you're an inspiration, all of your knowledge and passion for giving reptiles a better captive experience/existence. It's no wonder you and the biodude business are a success!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Thank you very much Kainoa! I really appreciate it :)

[@kodavulpedrius6712]

I live in Africa. We have a crap load of leaves.

[@ANinjasMom]

Yeah, just watched this and thought WTF. There are cities here that look like rainforests from space. Ergo, we have leaves

[@htx.slater7658]

Bro i just realized his facility is like 3 miles from me 😂 i live in league city texas. Defiantly gonna hear from me in the future dudes.

[@tacoshells741]

HTX.Slater has it happened yet?

[@cakepoprock]

Wow. I thought you were going to have those shops like those people who way overprice their items but all of yours are nice and affordable! When I get my leopard gecko I will be sure to purchase something! 😊

[@caewalker9276]

Nymphodora is exquisite. Thank you Josh. Great job with her new environment.

[@Yulfi]

He did that so quickly. Great job. You made this look simple, and you broke everything down very well. Thank you.

[@thedalto124]

These weeks between each episode is killing me. I NEEEEEED SUM BIODUDE VIDEOS TO LIVE

[@sarahhollander5379]

I loved getting to see the animal your set-ups are made for! I'm going to be upgrading my AFT to bio in the next year or so - just getting everything ready for that build is so much fun!

[@moogang6462]

Hi i am 10 years old i been researching because im getting a gekco for my birthday this video help me put a alot tysm

[@graceshi9085]

Ur so lucky 😭

[@thedalto124]

that gecko is so cute at the end. Also it was very nice of you to set up that tank. Go you

[@scottwhitemyer5501]

good information, easy to follow instructions for set up. great job Josh

[@l.a.1254]

I have the Exo Terra front opening tanks for all my reptiles. The holes in the back (for cords) was one reason why I chose that brand. I love the plants you chose. Very healthy looking. Overall beautiful set up.

[@danielleb.7055]

Heather was in a reptile youtubers video for the expo that just happened in your guys area. On there she said she was getting a fat tail. Thats awesome that she came to you guys for her enclosure! Wish you guys were still in PA.

[@OkNoBigDeal]

DON’T CALL ME NYMPHADORA!!! 🧙‍♀️

[@mrkrabs5729]

Barry Scoffer

[@martincrazereptiles8477]

Fantastic setup

[@jdandkikisExotics]

all of your builds aare insane much love im setting up my cages to bioactive cause of your builds

[@chiefchick]

Josh, you got me into bioactive enclosures and now, all of mine are. Thank you. They do make a difference. My animals all look healthy, act healthy and eat awesome. YOU ARE THE BOMB when it comes to husbandry. Your videos are my to go-to whenever I have a new reptile. All my substrates are from your company bec I TRUST YOU more than any other. Thank you for bringing animal husbandry to a higher level. Thanks to you, I get to keep healthy animals!! And more than all these, I appreciate your love for reptiles and how I hear the sadness in your voice talking about these magnificent creatures being "package stuffers." Makes me sad. Thank you again and I will always patronize your company and your dedication! More power and God bless you!!

[@sylvankadonka7155]

Just popping in to say THANK YOU. I've followed the Leopard Gecko channel for a year now in preparation for my future reptilian friend but being in the UK she has access to products that I don't. I just discovered you last week and I have never been more excited! The education and products you provide make me feel much more confident and supported in my ability to create the best environment possible. I'm taking the plunge and ordering my first supplies from you TODAY. THE DREAM LIVES! Ps you and Leopard Gecko should totally be in business together somehow. Yall are amazing.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You are more than welcome. Thank you so much for following : )

[@curtism1741]

Thank you Josh H I really appreciate your videos. I really think you should do more videos. Thank you

[@lanegoss2511]

Beautiful tank dude

[@Yugo-CA]

Thanks BioDude. Just finished my setup looks great! AAA+++ Products!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Great to hear! Let us know if you have any questions! facebook.com/groups/BRASUS/

[@tiffanydulaney467]

I've learned so much! Thank you!!! I need some things forsure!!!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You are so welcome! Glad we could be helpful! www.thebiodude.com/blogs/reptile-and-amphibian-caresheets-with-cited-veterinary-and-herpetology-sources/african-fat-tailed-gecko-hemitheconyx-caudicinctus-care-sheet-and-bioactive-terrarium-maintenance www.thebiodude.com/products/african-fat-tail-gecko-vivarium-kit

[@73mazer]

More vids dude! Always Awesome...

[@LILBOOGsBUGCORNER]

Love That Setup Dude!!! That Fat Tail is Beautiful!!!!

[@SB-wj8oj]

Thank you for all your info Josh! My two leopard geckos are thankful for it

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Great, thank you for following!!!

[@ekerostunt4272]

Love your channel

[@TyTyman8]

You’re a cool dude good work

[@LateNight1212]

Wow nice gecko

[@margareteasbey8001]

you are so helpful i am learning soooo much!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

That is wonderful! please let us know if you have any questions! Check out the dudes blog as well - www.thebiodude.com/pages/bio-dude-blog

[@darisrafiify]

I always like watching your video when you create set up for a reptiles. Keeup up the good work. A Corn Snake setup if I may request for your future video...

[@troydorame890]

Thank you very much

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You are welcome

[@DannyZangrilli]

I love your products I am planning on getting it for my ball pyhton

[@ASMRILLUSION]

after i watched the video(which by the way was extremely helpful!!) I rewatched it and just kept watching that little anole in its tank to the left just enjoying life lol

[@andrewewald1994]

Absolutely stunning set up. Makes me want to get a AFT myself. Btw, I can’t tell if anyone else noticed it, but your mic was cutting in and out every now and then.

[@tacoshells741]

Andrew Ewald did you get one yet, are you still considering?

[@fhirdvnk7327]

I am gay

[@torIIgo]

I live in San Antonio so I'm just a few hours drive away! I'm actually getting a breeding pair of Tang albinos that I just obtained from geckos ect., and I will get two more females, one of which is a tangerine (NOT Tang Albino) heterozygous for patternless, sometime this month if not June as I want my animals to acclimate to their new homes. And yes I will keep the male in his own enclosure so he won't harass any of my girls as I won't breed them until next year. Only thing I need to get is the lighting which is no problem as well as isopods. I will be posting a video in the not-too-distant future, so till then keep making those awesome videos, dude!!

[@tiffanydulaney467]

I didn't know that you have to de warm your lizard! Oh my I need so much help!!!

[@SkyCaststeelNichijou]

Uvb in the case of nocturnal geckos is actually harmful. The intense light is quite damaging on their eyes, so close up, and they will eventually go blind or have trouble seeing their food. It's actually recommended to keep them in range of sunlight, as they really only need minimal access to light to process calcium.

[@Tyanna_Claire96]

@Blood Eagle 88 the heat should be able to be accurate without the use of lights so it's accurate at night. The heat pad or ceramic heater should be used with a thermostat and that should be more than enough to get the right temp...

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Sky Caststeel. Great point. If the gecko is forced in the open and has no escape from the UVB, it can harm their eyes. This is why all of my builds have the "crowded" feel. The animal has multiple areas and hiding spots throughout the enclosure that is shadowed and safe from the full UVB emission like their natural environment would provide.

[@liltopp95]

Dope

[@iam816j.alford8]

Lol poor lil bugs, I'd say we put the bugs in last b4 fat tails cause all moving around. But the set up is dope frfr and u gave some good tips thanks bro.

[@josephbennett3482]

JOSH: BANG BANG... i thought I broke my tank. Boss man almost had a bad day. ME: HAHAHA 😂😂😂 LOL too funny.

[@FarAwayCookie]

Where can I find articles/videos about the how's and whys of the bioactive concepts your products use?? I'm in love with how your tanks look!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Ultra. Great Question! I recommend checking out The Dude's Blog here: www.thebiodude.com/pages/amazon-tree-boa-bioactive-kit

[@jas3277]

People really say there’s no leaves in Africa? 😂 there’s literal rainforests in Africa 😂 Very informative video thank you!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Glad you liked it!

[@brentonjones1645]

Awesome !!

[@charitysheppard4549]

I just LOVE your videos!! I'm in the research phase of getting either a leopard or fat-tailed gecko. I have learned so much! When I finally get my gecko, I will probably probaly make a trip out to get all properly set up. Do you only use one of the heat sources, or do you use the UTH and the bulb? Anyway, awesome video!!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey Charity. It depends on the home environment. A keeper with a reptile room that is an ambient 80 degrees would probably not need the extra overhead heating. A keeper who keeps a 68 degree household would need the extra heat source. I always recommend using a thermostat for heat sources to ensure the proper temp. range needed for each specie.

[@lucianosotelo]

Can you please do an update on your leopard gecko

[@faithwalters1598]

Does the kit come with springtails and isopods or do they need to be bought separate?

[@liltopp95]

Just gave me a idea

[@kensand7264]

Mr.Josh.. when are you planning on restocking the isopods and springtails?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey Ken. We have a small number available now on the website. Thebiodude.com

[@Victoria-lq6gw]

I just ordered the terafirma bio active kit for a 20 long. Do I need to add springtails and isopods or will the bioshot do the work? Also, I’ve tried getting my aft to bask, he won’t, nor does he eat anything else but crickets. I’ve had him for almost 2 years and he was captive bred. Will he be fine on your substrate?

[@uomorana71]

it's time to start shippin your stuff to old europe, dude!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I know, I know. I am working on it. There is so much to international shipping - ITs crazy.

[@jaztaz45]

where do you get one? i never see any online from the reptile places i follow

[@barackobama8833]

Please make a update video

[@TheBigtrev90]

Is it best to do the under tank heater away from the light/hot side?

[@fionashepley478]

No, the heat mat should be under the warm side. They need a temperature gradient to thermoregulate

[@tiffanydulaney467]

Also that moss you used after the Terra firma ....where do you find that? I have never seen that or heard of it...I actually never heard of either things you used...this is all new to me

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey! I will link what we used here! - www.thebiodude.com/collections/biodegradable-leaf-litter/products/aaa-new-zealand-spag-moss-6qts We are happy to answer any questions you may have! please let us know!

[@dawnadams4859]

Do you have to clean this type of tank? Would you have to take everything out and dump the soil and put new stuff and re-plant the plants? Or is it just completely self cleaning?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Once established and maintained properly, it will be self suntanning and completely self cleaning. With exception of spot cleaning the glass if you have an arboreal species. But overall, with introducing micro fauna and everything, the Bioactive set up will replicate a natural ecosystem like you would find outside keeping it cleaned for you. We have some enclosure set up for 10+ years, same substrate.

[@Tanj2560]

Will love to see a Indonesian Blue tongue skink 😊

[@2ksecondsonhunt595]

Can we get an update on this tank plsssss

[@yahiralejandro-pagan3327]

The Bio Dude can you make a video on how to set up a bioactive kit for a Uromastyx

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I for sure will one day! They are harder to find here in TX.

[@naturezone1212]

I have one

[@logivenchy8010]

can you please do a uromastyx set up video next

[@sophia-jv9zy]

did anyone else realize that he flipped us off at 10:37?? 😂

[@uglyribcage6982]

@The Bio Dude Josh Halter I have two questions. Can you write the names of the items you use in the video, and put it in the description. And do you sell TerraFirm separate. Because buying the whole set is a bit expensive.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

We would be happy to help with your build! If you would please reach out to our Customer Care team at [e-mail]

[@femalerebelx5223]

Which one of your bioactive kits would you recommend for the Viper Gecko?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Terra Sahara! They are great little lizards. My friend Jon used to breed them back in 2004-2005

[@GruffThree9]

Hey josh. So I am thinking of buying a bioactive kit for either my leopard gecko or western hognose and was wondering: is the cleanup crew included in the kit or do I have to buy them seperate?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Dylan_F. The kits do not come with the bugs as they would not survive the 3-4 day transit and have to be shipped via FedEx overnight. you will get The BioShot in your which does everything the bugs do on a microscopic level.

[@stinkster]

anyone know where i can buy all this stuff? i'm getting my african fat tail in a couple days but this guy doesn't ship to the UK.

[@iguanasnipersfl]

Have you seen the price of premium gas?

[@anthonygaitan3901]

Does this not need a drainage layer? Thanks.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Some of the substrates can be set up without one, its in their separate descriptions, but some species need higher humidity, needing one.

[@anthonygaitan3901]

The Bio Dude Josh Halter Would you say having a substrate layer for a species that doesn’t need one would be harmful to them?

[@plant2188]

How has you Fat Tail done with the UVB? I’m very interested in a UVB system for my Fat Tail, and I want to know how yours is doing with the UVB

[@ralphsshades]

Could you make a mossy frog kit?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Kali. I absolutely can! You're welcome to reach out to me at [e-mail] We can go over the details of the build and I can send you an invoice for it.

[@ralphsshades]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter Ok! Soon i'm going to get Vietnamese mossy frogs and want to do a bio-active enclosure for them!

[@TheOnlyDzk]

Can you use any ferns for fat tails???

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Sure! I recommend Birdsnest Fern, Korean Rock, East Indian Holly, Rabbits Foot, etc.

[@theprelovedpixie1255]

Do you ship to the UK?

[@derrickhale1116]

My leopard gecko Basque every night on his rock he loves it!!!

[@marcobueno31]

It doesn't need a drainage layer?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

For the FIrma negative. It doesn't require a DL.

[@tiffanydulaney467]

Where do do get that Terra firma??

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey there! We have the kits here- www.thebiodude.com/collections/bioactive-gecko-terrarium-kits/products/african-fat-tail-gecko-vivarium-kit And the substrate alone, here- www.thebiodude.com/collections/bioactive-substrates/products/terra-firma-6-qt-bag

[@whyningh7078]

Can I use a yellow light like the sun and a whitish blueish light at night?

[@Lizards.blehleh]

DO NOT use a light at night! If you aren't using a UTH, use a ceramic bulb. The gecko can see the light. It will keep them awake.

[@kaytlynngoodrich1247]

Can you do rainbow boa and red eyed crocodile bio active tanks ? Please and thank you

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

They are on the list. Thank you for following!

[@Skyrocketrecords56]

Could u do a video for indonesian blue tongue skinks id love to go bioactive

[@slim4400]

Hey Josh, I have used several of your products and they have all been incredible. I was wondering if you would be interested in doing something like this for a red eye croc skink setup?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey Damon. More videos will be coming soon!

[@slim4400]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter sweet! well if you need a skink to upgrade i've got one lol

[@crystalnewmoyer6853]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter i love you Josh halter my name is miles

[@leonburstrom2523]

i want to build a bioactive terrarium with your stuff but i live in sweden

[@tiffanydulaney467]

So you have your own website?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey hey! yes, i will link it here for you! - www.thebiodude.com/

[@mr.cheesebaccw3st234]

Wat would be the price for everything u jus used for a breaded dragon

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You're welcome to reach out to us. I would be happy to create a custom invoice for you. I have done a few build modeled after Hercules' enclosure. [e-mail] or give us a call [phone]

[@seretmodzz8872]

5:21 look at the enclosure at the left, you see the lizard :)

[@antwonizzard6333]

can you make a how to video for dumpy tree frogs

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

It will be coming at some point. : )

[@pilibailey]

This is so awesome. Thank you for sharing. we want to make one for our little fat tail. Can we order everything on your website?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Thank you so much for sharing!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You absolutely can Pili! We have specific kits just for fat tails :)

[@jevantepaige3622]

There’s not that much leaves in Africa?

[@Fumontonko]

16:13 you broke the window LOL

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I almost did!!!!

[@LaytenKaid]

Not almost...you did break it you cracked it

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

@@LaytenKaid nope

[@LaytenKaid]

Dude you created a small crack on the right door watch the video back

[@picball39]

@@LaytenKaid thats the tape slapping to one side after get ripped

[@tiffanydulaney467]

I can buy things from your website??

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Yes absolutely! - www.thebiodude.com/ Or you can reach out to [e-mail] and we can get a kit together for you!

[@cryptoastronaut8130]

Make a video about panther chameleon

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

It is coming

[@ADpacker]

So it doesnt need a drainage layer? Also was wondering where to get fat tail geckos other than online? Beautiful tank ☺

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

The Terra Firma does it all for you without the need of a drainage layer. I don't know of a good online source..... Thank you very much!

[@dixieparton7605]

I ordered my AFT from The Blessed Gecko on FB! Very recommended!

[@marytwinflamessoulfamunite7102]

Out of curiosity will a 40 Gallon Breeder tank be ok for a African Fat Tail Gecko upto 4 Females or 1 Female or Male or is it to large also how much substrate and everything will I need for an African Fat Tai for my enclosure sizel also this video is absolutely awesome it's super educated and I really like your setup for This African Fat Tail Gecko I'm looking into getting either a upto 4 Female African Fat Tail Geckos or upto 4 Female Leopard Geckos haven't decided yet but I have a 40 gallon Breeder Terarium that is 36 by 18 by 18 that I need to house either African Fat Tail Geckos or Leopard Geckos also what watt Glow bulb would be suitable for a 40 Gallon Breeder also do you have An African Fat Tail Gecko Species Specific kit that will fit a 40 Gallon Breeder Tank I've noticed you do have one for a Leopard Gecko that is good for a 40 Gallon breeder

[@supralex1]

~Halter 2020~ Make America Bioactive Again!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Ha Ha Ha! That's what I do :)

[@mountaincat1514]

I want to have my bearded dragon in a bio active terrarium but I don’t know if the tera Sahara dirt could cause impaction, my lizard is about five months old and not that big. Can someone help me out and possibly answer my questions?

[@andrewjedru7117]

Impaction is never a problem (even sand) unless you arnt properly giving the animal calcium and uvb. In the wild they live on loose substrate and even dig for Insects which are covered in substrate. It's all about having a healthy lizard :) Good luck with your tank!

[@mountaincat1514]

Can’t impaction kill them? I just want the best for my bearded dragon.

[@lisboa9414]

I followed this method for my leopard gecko, and he loved it

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I’m glad to hear that!

[@bergen7320]

The heat mat should cover 1/2 or 1/3 of the floor space :)

[@jjjjj8455]

He knows

[@dixieparton7605]

But he doesn't....because he didn't. AFT need belly heat to digest food. I'm not seeing a source of this belly heat anywhere in this video.

[@Bennyy85]

can you do a build for any rainbow boa or other tropical boa species please?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Yes! Soon!

[@Bennyy85]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter sweet

[@Ohdeesy]

Blue tongue skink enclosure video

[@kodavulpedrius6712]

The thing i hate about you guys the most is you don't ship internationally! I always brows through your website and your products look great and you guys get such great ratings!

[@tiffanydulaney467]

Thank you for this video!!! My son has a fat tail and it kinda became my pet...and I HAVE NO IDEA HOW TO CARE FOR THIS LIZARD!!!! I love animals and all living creatures and want to make sure this thing is taken care of!!! Im watching videos to know how to set his tank up the right way!!! I have the basic things but I don't have everything!!! This was helpful!!! Thank you!!!!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

So glad it was helpful! Please let us know if you have any other questions!

[@jonmerkle6138]

the bio dude is the brst