How to setup a bioactive terrarium for a Ball Python

[@guiltycheese575]

I feel like 50% of all domestic ball pythons are named Monty

[@oren8699]

Eddie Leiphart true

[@unyxpectedtrinkets4616]

I named mine Severus (Severus snake) and I feel like that's also no longer original.

[@juju2bockyy]

Ball pythons aren't domestic you mean captive

[@alyl2064]

Khrysos, Enyo, and Hexxus are mine. I literally vowed that I would never name a snake Monty, Kaa, or Nagini. I have a super common name and it's annoying as hell, I wouldn't dream of subjecting my "children" to that bullshit 😂

[@tsukasaoftheazuresky]

I have a Nagini, and a Draco

[@karnarobbins3680]

So looking forward to showing Tristan this video on his birthday! He may get more excited about the shout-out than anything else! Thanks for shout-out and the set up Josh!

[@SerpentKeeper]

Karna Robbins do you still have the snake and the set up?

[@karnarobbins3680]

TheLawyer OfSnakes, yes. She has been lovingly cared for and will eventually get larger housing.

[@konner2024]

Karna Robbins your an amazing mom

[@easprotsandthots1693]

Karna Robbins stilll have her?

[@agentelvis81]

I'm a couple months into a successful (so far, knock on wood!) bioactive setup for my Ball Python and would like to say thank you to Josh for his straight-forward videos and information. I purchased Bio Dude's Terra-Firma Bioactive Kit as the base for my project and was very happy with his stuff! He is a smart guy who knows what he's talking about. Don't let the sound quality of his older videos turn you off - he's got the science covered and you don't need to go looking for something with fancier production :) Terra-Firma does exactly what he says it will do, and it did it even better than I expected. Seriously.... don't pack or compress this substrate - KEEP IT LOOSE so your pet can manipulate it to his liking - it makes the entire experience so much better. It maintains such an even gradient of moisture from top to bottom... My plants are rooting and holding in it like crazy... Microfauna love it... It holds whatever deformation my ball python causes in it like burrows and "roads" and I love seeing the unique shape of the inside of his dens anytime I open them up. I occasionally mix/churn the substrate in non-rooted areas - more frequently under my snake's hide areas (anytime I actually remove him from one to handle or feed), encouraging exercise and stimulation in creating new borrows, as well as spreading microfauna around and introducing oxygen to the soil. Mixing some of the sphagnum moss into the Terra Firma really allows areas of it to stay super airy, and after I freshly "churn-up" areas of my enclosure I leave some spots super "loose" and my snake will actually burrow DOWN into it like a worm, sometimes I even find a tunnel leading from inside his hide to somewhere like 8" away! I think when he sheds, this aspect of the Terra-Firma will help him loosen his old face skin to get it started, too. My Isopods love any holes or partial tunnels left by the snake, I notice they go inside and shed, which draws Springtails and allows me to regularly catch glimpses of these secretive, invisible little guys I spent my hard-earned money on, lol. For somebody anal about weird stuff like me, it's nice to see them and know they're alive without digging! To add to Josh's tips and walkthrough here, I have had excellent luck with Pothos and since my enclosure is long and narrow, I planted any plants at least 2" from the glass to encourage the snake to form his "roads" around and not over them. This has worked pretty well! I notice that snakes tend to cruise their same "roads" during periods of activity, so with some proper planning you can avoid most trampling issues. I have 2 varieties of Elephant Bush (native African succulent, edible, omg delicious) on on the hotter, dryer, basking side and they've been doing awesome. They love the basking lamp, handle the Ball Python's weight, and help retain heat in the basking area rather than let it easily spread over to the cooler side. They shelter some microfauna too which helps keeps them somewhat active in the dryer area. They often live in areas of full sun and over 100 degrees F, and can be 80% of an Elephant's diet so you know they grow fast!

[@Shaden0040]

Can I make a suggestion? You should get a wireless mic that you can clip on to your shirt. Other than the sound quality your videos are excellent.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I just ordered one!

[@juju2bockyy]

thats kinda small for a bp (lengthwise)

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

It was for a customer's baby ball python. In the video it seems shorter than it is. For a juvenile or adult, I recommend something much larger.

[@karnarobbins3680]

TheKuroHerper The python was a 3 year old rescue that was “intentionally” stunted to keep her small, measuring at barely a hair over 2 foot long. As of May 2019 she has almost doubled in size with her new owner.

[@Hoelstadt]

you know this because why?

[@jadesurber2051]

@@Hoelstadt cause it's her snake 😅

[@juju2bockyy]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter yeah I agree for ball pythons they need a 75 gallon or 48 x 24 minimum

[@kelly3824]

Maybe this is a dumb question but how does the heatmat work when you have so much soil above it?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi kelly. Not a dumb question at all. Great question in fact. There's many ways this works. Most often the animal will dig deeper to be closer to the heat. You can scape your soil to have a more shallow area above the heat mat, dig a couple of inches into the soil and place some cork overtop to provide a warm hide, or you can use the UTH on the side to provide a hot spot.

[@Paintopia_VR]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter But why no thermostat? Surely that is needed?

[@rhinodoesstuff9477]

Wandering Turtle I have had a python for 8 years and I didn’t have a thermostat he I still doing well, well I had a thermometer just I didn’t regulate the heat mat

[@hannahthefallenangel788]

@@rhinodoesstuff9477 that's dangerous

[@outdoorsanimalsandmusic3014]

@@rhinodoesstuff9477 lucky you haven’t burned your snake. Those things will run like 150 degrees unchecked. I have mine set at 96 on my rack and after going through the tub and substrate I get a 90-92 degree hot spot.

[@djozone]

Can't wait to pick up a kit for my ball python he's gonna love it! Can you do some videos of some setups after the snakes have been in them for a few months and it's growing out and everything? Kinda like an update!

[@dickomode]

Yeah, that would be interesting!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Ill be doing plenty of them soon.

[@MarleyPeifer]

im very interested in this also.

[@nikkigreenshoes]

SAME! I like this idea. Thanks!

[@stiltokin]

I'd be interested in knowing what it would look like a few months down the road

[@danielpatton3317]

So happy I found this video. Probably saved me from burning down my house. My rubber feet fell off on one of my tanks and was laying directly on the cord. It is crushed and flat. Thanks man. Won't make that mistake again. Edit: I dont even have a bioactive enclosure. Im just watching stuff on KZbin.

[@AridiaMoonWolf]

I have two enchi ball pythons (boy and girl) and like all my other critters I have them in a bioactive terrarium, however they both crush and kill any and all plants I put in there. I've tried bamboo, ferns of all kinds, pothos, grasses, dwarf ivy, penny-wort ...all dead. I tested identical setups in other vaccant tanks including adding in fecal matter from the animals and the plants thrived and took over the tank in about 3 months. Any thoughts? side note... ball pythons don't burrow. They use existing spaces. If your python is burrowing then you have a severe humidity problem and they'd typically wedge themselves under the water dish.

[@vanilla_bean496]

Love God Bob at the very LEAST I keep my humidity 60% but still weekly when I re-add moist soil my baby loves to dig and carry around the dirt on her head 😂

[@ghostraider2479]

It’s all about the snake humidity and substance it different for everyone

[@discospiit69]

The lotus pod in the back wont stop looking at me

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

It has multiple eyes.........

[@enriquesexotics9095]

The Bio Dude Josh Halter 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@jamisonweaver3711]

How long will that size enclosure be suitable for what I'm guessing is a small young snake?

[@brittleann9823]

I'm looking into getting my first snake ever, a ball python. I've scoured the entire internet & I got to say, this video is my favorite! I really enjoyed being able to watch you put the vivarium together, what products you added, why you added them & how they help. Thank you so so much!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Glad I could help!

[@rice2meatu]

Is it better to put the cork bark in first before adding the isopods and springtails to avoid crushing them?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You can absolutely do that, it does reduce the risk of accidentally crushing them. But as long as your mindful about your placement, this will work too.

[@austinburton9247]

Very nice! It’s awesome that you did that for the kid and his parents. I know I’ve asked you this a lot but could you please do a tutorial on fire skinks?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Getting there!

[@LandonsExotics]

Loved the video, however I’m not sure how much substrate I’ll need for a 36” by 18” by 18” enclosure or what clean up crew I’ll need? ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@jacobmiller2486]

Love this vid great help to setting up my own terrarium. I appreciate all your help man

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Glad the video was helpful!! thank you!! :)

[@thegreenrockettube]

Great video man, I'll make sure to take notes for building my own bio active vivarium for my ball python soon

[@RedQueenOfficial]

If ball python starts digging in & all this stuff including that fertilizer gets in his mouth is your earth substrate 100% safe? I saw my ball had a mouthful of eco earth when he got excited and started digging ..I had to scoop it all out of his mouth with a qutip.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Red Queen Official, all of our substrates are made with organic materials. As long as your temperatures are correct and your animal is in optimal health then issues such as impaction should not occur.

[@matthewmoser3921]

Great video! Just got a whole kit for a 4x2x2 enclosure and a set of 5 plants from you. Cost quite a bit, but I think it'll be well worth it.

[@ravenonyx122]

Do bio active enclosures have to b glass?

[@lindali7557]

Just a question out of curiosity, how is the heat getting up since the bedding is very thick? Just wanted to know since I want to build one too:)

[@BenDovers48372Channel]

linda li They ballpython would burrow to get closer to the heat. But I don’t have that issue as I use paper or newspaper

[@kev9048]

Can I add meal worms as part of the clean up crew as well?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You can, just watch. they can bite and become a pest/out compete some of your other CUC.

[@kristideeley]

How long would a tat that size be suitable for a baby/juvenile bp male before you need to move up to a longer enclosure?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

as all animals grow at different rates, it would depend on how long it takes to grow, but once you think its small you can move up.

[@ookapets...reptiles9058]

Hi. I was wondering if you could do a northern blue tongue skink bioactive setup video. I met you at NARBC Arlington and I had just bought my baby northern blue tongue skink. Thank you I hope you can make that video! 🦎

[@elizabethsilva1287]

How often do you have to change the whole soil n how do you know ur lil animals are still alive to you have to keep putting more with time n what is the full cost of doing something like thing n ongoing maintenance/cost.?

[@THEE.apples]

Can you do a uromastyx bioactive setup?

[@jaredcook4577]

ii Marquise ii ii Marquise ii ?

[@maxamhursh6745]

@@jaredcook4577 that would be cool

[@sparko0snakes966]

Dose the substrate have Pete moss?

[@poonSAPPonglamjiak]

How often do you need to change your substrates for the ball python living inside?

[@eldritchhorror99]

If your doing a bioactive with isopods, springtails and such, then never they will take care of it for you. Thought I'd reply since you haven't gotten one yet.

[@mollyballard9824]

With bioactive terrarium's like these, how often are you changing out the substrate and do you let waste naturally decompose or remove it?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

When utilizing our Bio Dude substrates, we have had our enclosures up and running for 10+ years utilizing the same dirt from the original set up. Overtime you will need to replace the biodegradables but other than that, the enclosure takes care of itself. All the waste created by your reptile will naturally decompose and replenish the nutrients back into your soil.

[@ApexRoyals]

Awesome I didn't think it could be done at 1st but that's perfect.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Thanks!

[@katebagnal8817]

Ok I am a new owner. I have trouble with keeping humidity high enough. I am thinking of doing this bio house for her. What happened if they get mites? Do you have to start new with all materials? If no issues do you have to change dirt out or are you just good to go from here on out? Please provide a list of all materials for this!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey there! this is the starter kit www.thebiodude.com/collections/amphibian-reptile-starter-kits/products/ball-python-habitat-starter-kit

[@colenorris8463]

I'm just wondering why you jumped straight to your media do you not need drainage in this instance?

[@jessicaferrara1018]

Is it true that springtails and isopods help prevent or cut down on snake mites?

[@evanscott7652]

Beautiful setup, but won't an adult ball python need more than an 18 by 18 enclosure?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Chico the Human yes absolutely. This is for a young ball python and he will upgrade when it reaches the appropriate size.

[@evanscott7652]

That makes a lot more sense. Love your work!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Thank you.

[@destinybrady7430]

Definitely, I recommend at least a 20gal long, even for hatchlings because of how quickly they grow. Also with his Ball Python being a female, she'll quickly start maturing. I wouldn't understand the point of paying for an 18x18x18 exo terra just to have to upgrade soon. But to each their own.

[@Fairytale30299]

True. This is barely big enough for a baby.

[@TheEmeraldAlfheim]

Im putting together my kit and I dont have isopods? I have a white package with tough brown dirt or something maybe for humidity while traveling?

[@arizonaherpsandinvertibret5407]

That is the bioshot, which does the same thing

[@jscribbl3]

Should I get a light source for the plants?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Yes, plants require a specific light necessary to ensure they grow and flourish. We offer 2 different types, our Glow and Grow LED along with our Solar Grow fluorescent light. They both work sufficiently to emit the beneficial spectrum, we offer them on our website if you are interested.

[@Littlesparklebaby]

I love how this turned out! I’ve been pondering the idea of giving my ball python a bioactive terrarium but I’m nervous. I have a lot of house plants and typically in the summer time I’ll have gnats. I can only imagine they’d have a great time in an enclosure like this. How would you prevent a gnat infestation and how would you treat it?

[@catlinpowers382]

Hey I know you commented a year ago but just incase it's still an issue mosquito bits work well ! Set the bit in some type of cloth you can use to strain it and let it soak in some water until it dissolves most of it and then take out the cloth and water the dirt in your enclosure or your potted plants as you normally would. It's safe for regular animals, reptiles, isopods, springtails. But it kills knats and the larvae

[@tgs2835]

​@@catlinpowers382 Thanks for giving your advice out to a year old comment I'm going to try this 😁

[@cheddardavis5818]

I’ve had gnats in my gtp bio setup , I put a couple of yellow sticky fruit fly traps on top of the screen. This plus having isopods and springtails kept them at bay. There’s always one here or there but nothing major. They haven’t harmed my animal or setup

[@rachelshull3712]

Can someone please explain to me how a screen top is able to keep a humidity level of ~60%? Any help is appreciated!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey hey Rachel! The soil, plants and regular watering of the enclosure by spraying it down frequently or using a misting system or dripper are the best ways to go. Might need to regulate it depending on where you live and your homes biome, we suggest using a hygrometer to properly check levels. www.thebiodude.com/products/vivarium-electronics-digital-thermometer-hygrometer

[@evasieberling]

This tank is so ridiculously small, even for a young ball python 😖

[@iwrath2196]

It really is. A hatchling ball python - 6months probably could but i wouldn't put anything past that in

[@gabrielmedina4078]

That’s what I was thinking 🤔

[@mia_edits6254]

I was saying that the whole video! The set up is nice but the tank is super super small

[@kaciecabral9759]

@@iwrath2196 not even.. I just had to move my 4 month old bp from 10 gal to 20 gall tank he's so big already.

[@heathergreen3856]

I thinks it’s more for the idea

[@isaactheguitarist4918]

When heating a cage is it better to use the heat pad instead of a heat lamp? I've heard that ball pythons don't really bask and like to hide instead.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Heat pad are a common practice among keepers. This mainly started due to racking systems. Ball pythons will bask if given the opportunity. Personally, I like overhead heating instead of under the tank. It's easier to regulate and more natural. You can have a hide in the basking area for the snake if you want which they will utilize.

[@Vorador47]

i would say heat mats are only good for racks, tubs and maybe glass vivs (depending on size and set up), in other cases they are pretty much useless to a potential hazard (depending on set up) for snakes, you would really want a Wooden Viv, in which case a heat mat can't go on the outside and putting it inside is doable but not ideal, and for larger and heavier snakes is a risk. plus something like an adult Royal Python you would be using 3-4ft tank, a heat mat is doing to very little to increase ambient air temp in something that size. as for the basking side of things, it doesn't really matter. if you use say a Ceramic heater and that heater brings the average temp in the tank to say 86f then everything including the ground is also going to be that temp. slap a hide directly under or near the heater and that hide will also be nice a warm. in the wild they don't have underground heaters, the ground is absorbing heat from above as well.

[@skyemccready]

for a bioactive set up, can you have a heat mat inside of the tank, or does it have to be under the tank?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

It is outside the glass either on the side or bottom

[@synthesizezr4342]

Do you NEED to add the bugs?

[@eviehankins8223]

Is this for a hatchling? Can you show how to set up an adult 4x2x2? Or is it pretty much the same?

[@chriscongemi2109]

Do you suggest an open screen cover os something that cuts down on evaporation as plastic. With some vents. For a ball python.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

That is solely indicative on you and your climate. If you have issues keeping humidity then yes, you may have to cover part of the screen to limit airflow, but if your in Texas like me where its wetter than soup you may not need something like that.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I like having a screen top. If you go with an enclosure type, I recommend increasing the ventilation.

[@chriscongemi2109]

@@TheBioDudeJoshHalter thank you!!

[@johnknouse8846]

No thermostat on the UTH? I guess that much substrate should prevent it from getting too hot, but I would still worry.

[@kainfowler3686]

It probably won't even get any heat through the substrate at all...

[@Sir_ai]

I have a 36x12x18 eco terra tank, setting up a Bio tank for a ball python. Which I purchased the soil and stuff from you. I just wanna know if I put the heat mat on the bottom or side. You got me all confused by putting it on the side on some and on the bottom on others. What’s the correct way?

[@MarieTrappehave]

Ideally you shouldn't be using a heatmat at all, only overhead heat on a thermostat. Ball pythons will burrow to reach colder temperatures, so a heatmat under the substrate is not beneficial to this behavior, and the amount of substrate needed to have a bioactive viv will make it impossible for the heat from a heatmat to actually warm up the rest of the tank properly.

[@nandohernandez9078]

i just got isopods for mine but i don’t see them and feces were still solid like not being eaten, what else can i do to help that?? he’s going to shed soon but honestly haven’t seen any isopods since i’ve gotten

[@nandohernandez9078]

and what’s a light set up i can use for both the snake and plants? i feel like a uvb alone does nothing for snake

[@elianabarlow8345]

In some past video's, you said that the spring tails and isopods don't break down the snakes pee/urate. Would you have to clean that out and how would you do that without ruining the setup if, for example, the snake pooped in a tunnel? I really want to do a bio active setup for my snake but I have been curious about that for a while.

[@tehhron]

Eliana Barlow you just pluck it out.

[@Shaden0040]

His new mycchorizoid bio shot should do the trick over time for those hard to get at excrement. Still clean as usual the surface stuff you can get at.

[@coachbradsoccer]

In my past experience with ball pythons, they almost always (75% or better) leave their hide to have a BM. Or, they tend to have BMs when they are out of the hide cruising because they aren't static and are moving around. It's one way or the other, but that was what I observed for the majority of the time.

[@Draxxdemsklounst]

It would be great if you included a product list, possibly with links to buy online.

[@BenDovers48372Channel]

Felicia He has a website with this kit. thebiodude.com

[@Draxxdemsklounst]

@@BenDovers48372Channel Yeah but he's gpt a bunch of kits and other things listed on the site. I'd like to see links to the specific items used in this video if possible.

[@TapSnapOrNap203]

It would be nice to know about the lighting .. are u using UVB ? Or LED just for light so u can see inside...?

[@jasonboaconstrictor9850]

Hi could do with your help I’ve recently set up a bio active tank for my boa and I’ve noticed some tiny black insects in the water bowl any ideas what these could be they are a quarter of the size of a springtail

[@spookybois6129]

those are snake mites

[@jamessommer7441]

How long would this last for once setup? When would I need to re-surface the terrafirma, etc.? Does this last a year? More? What does upkeep look like?

[@eldritchhorror99]

I will inform you with this, bioactive means it takes care of itself pretty much, with the isopods and springtails, they will clean everything for you.

[@tammyjams22]

What is the best size tank for a ball python?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

We recommend a minimum tank size of 75 gallons for fully grown pythons. Initially, you can house them in a 40-gallon tank when they are still babies, and gradually upgrade the tank size as they grow larger.

[@luisanarodriguez4037]

How can I ensure the CuCs have established in my bioactive?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I always check around water sources, be it water bowls, biodegradable pods, or plants. They’re generally going to be found most abundantly in those areas, so if you’re seeing lots of them there, you should be good.

[@mitchlg531]

Hey if I make a Bioactive tank for my corn snake how would I set up a soil to not get a lot of humidity?

[@dickomode]

There are a few ways to lower humidity. One thing you can do is lower the soil to water concentration, and you also can use plants that suck up lot's of the water. Look at the youtuber GoHerping's video on humidity.

[@evanscott7652]

You could also have really deep soil, so it is moist at the bottom and dryer at the top, where the corn snake is.

[@sarahdickinson5154]

Hi! Question regarding the set up, i set mine up in a 20l tank but soon after realized i need a new tank, can i empty the current set up into a new tank? Or do we need to start over?

[@cynthiafox1536]

This is probably a silly question but how much do you must it per day...? Like a quick mist? Several mists? Do you must for a certain amount of time?

[@MegaBossmare]

Get a thermometer that measures humidity. Its at Walmary in the garden section. It needs to be at 50% for your bp.

[@rachelfajardo9640]

How can the heat mat properly heat the enclosure with substrate that thick?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey Rachel. You can create a den on top of it and scoop some of the substrate out to compensate for the thickness, but honestly we recommend an over head heat source as it's easier to control.

[@rachelfajardo9640]

The Bio Dude Josh Halter thanks for the reply! I’m so excited to order one of your kits, I’ll be ready to buy everything in a few months !

[@weezylettebaby]

What type of plants are you using in this one?

[@camilafeldhaus4614]

Isnt it to small?

[@AbsoluteD1saster]

For an adult yes, maybe not a baby/juvenile

[@305niquee]

I know this is old but I’ve always wondered how having isopods works, do they not try to escape into your home?

[@animapolis4929]

They wouldn't because all they need in the enclosure and even if one got out, the average house is too dry for them, being 30% or less humidity. They often won't survive a day in the average house. Same with springtails.

[@305niquee]

Animapolis I live in FL, that’s why I’m concerned. It’s 80% humidity outside almost all the time and it’s 60% in my enclosure with the lid off

[@MarleyPeifer]

Is it hard for a bioactive terrarium to absorb and process all the waste from a medium or large snake? I was recently talking to a reptile store owner who was very doubtful...I know there is a lot of misunderstanding around this because it is so new and revolutionary but I am curious. He was suggesting that one would need a much bigger terrarium for the size of the animal than normal just to be able to absorb all the waste and have the bioactive substrate process it. Do you have terrarium size to animal size recommendations? Thanks!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Marley, Going bio is large enclosures is easily done. Just more upfront cost. You need a DEEP layer of substrate with your BioShot. You will still have to clean urates. I have many large Tegu and Python owners that use my system. Takes a long time, but worth it long term.

[@MarleyPeifer]

Thanks dude. I'm going to go for it. I feel committed to the concept you are promoting. I've started with my friends tarantula enclosure which seems like a great and easy way to start and will be getting a snake soon. Might be an adoption so I am not sure what snake yet or the size but I will set up a bioactive tank and let you know about it!! Can't wait. Probably will be a kingsnake, rosy boa, or ball.

[@MarleyPeifer]

Ok thanks. I rewatched the video about the california kingsnakes enclosure where you mentioned the part about spot cleaning the urates. I forgot that part.

[@yourbabyjules]

so in a bioactive tank, with isopods or springtails, you DONT have to clean out feces? not even like adult bp feces? (which is big)

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Julia that is correct!

[@TheCharleseye]

Technically no but some BPs will completely avoid the side of the tank they messed in (cutting down their usable space) and others will slither right through it (bad for all sorts of reasons). I'd still spot clean if you see feces, for those reasons but you don't have to be concerned with scooping out substrate and replacing it. Nor do you have to "deep clean" nearly so often.

[@soleilpiros713]

How many bags of the substrate would you suggest for a 36x18 tank?

[@FernandoHernandez-nj1kv]

What lights are required?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey hey! truly this would depend on the size of the enclosure for which lighting sizes and wattages would be best, but the temperature ranges stay the same. Here is a care sheet that gives great information regarding this. hope it helps, please let us know if you have any further questions! www.thebiodude.com/blogs/reptile-and-amphibian-caresheets-with-cited-veterinary-and-herpetology-sources/ball-python-care-guide

[@IAMGiftbearer]

Very nice set-up!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Thank you!

[@ac-oj2fc]

How do you keep the vivarium at the right temp? Is the uth your only heat source? I’m wanting to switch to a bio active vivarium for my BP but I’m just worried about temps. I keep the tank at 86 on the warm side with a che.

[@sammylvr7912]

Amber Crenshaw 86 is way too low for the hotside. it should be around 90-93.

[@dustandykes2985]

What type of lighting would be required for this setup to keep the plants alive? Sorry if that’s a silly question but I’m just getting into this.

[@dustandykes2985]

Daniel Morell thanks!

[@leventesimon5299]

How does any heat get through that thick layer of substrate?!

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Nu Metal. Thermostats help with that, but most often I use mine on the side of the tank to provide a properly heated area.

[@wingsveritas5717]

Excellent as always Josh!! Love your products and my frogs are stoked because of it!! Not sure if you are taking suggestions, but could you do a arboreal tree frog tank set up???

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

In the future, sure. My chinese gilder's will get an upgrade eventually.

[@wingsveritas5717]

Sweet! looking forward to it!!

[@dan31lbrown23]

I noticed on your website an article on bioactive ball python set-ups, in which theres a picture of the set-up which has a dwarf cavendish (banana) in it. Out of interest was this maintainable or did it have to be removed?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hey there! theres a pothos, arrow head vine, lemon button fern. they have to be trimmed back so as to not overgrow

[@randallhelton6011]

Question: Will an U.T.H work even through a 4.5-6 inch base layer of hydro balls,dirt,and mulch/coco fiber?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Jiggs Casey. If you're using hydroballs, it may not. You can use the UTH on the side of the tank though to get a properly heated area. If you are using a drainage layer for a Ball Python, I highly advise against that. Just some food for thought.

[@randallhelton6011]

The Bio Dude Josh Halter Thanks for the reply.Just curious though, why do you advise against the use of a drainage layer with ball pythons?

[@HaydeeDance]

I would like to know as well please

[@striderwhiston9897]

overhead heating is better than under tank heating.

[@HiNinqi]

The dude abides

[@Somebodyelselol]

Can I do this with a 4x2x2?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Totally! You would just have to accommodate the amount of products necessary to fill that size appropriately.

[@selenalennox4870]

r the bugs okay? wont they bite the snake? also, is scale rot a bigger issue with bioactive tanks?

[@felixmakesart]

Selena Lennox They don’t have the capacity to bite the snake. They feast on its poop. Not all bugs bite or are dangerous, you know.

[@redhawk5887]

So to my understanding with being1 a person that loves to garden. The heat mat would heat up the soil and create the proper humidity for the snake. You also don't want it get right close on the mat as it can burn their under bellies. I don't think the amount of substrate or soil is going to hinder heat distribution in the tank with the amount he has. Also, if you listen closely he does state it would keep the middle layer which going to create moist heat in fact it would mostly like heat your boop noodle more efficiently then sitting on a dry mat. Think of it as this have you ever dug in dirt after a rain shower on a hot summer day? That would be the same effect. At least that's how I see it

[@aaliyahfranco100]

Do you ever change out / replace the dirt etc etc ?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You should never have to replace the substrate if it was setup and maintained properly. I have tanks that have been set up 10+ years with the same substrate that are thriving.

[@kwanitaylor7393]

Does anyone know where I could get a terrarium like this and how much they usually cost?

[@jmzschueler]

Hey man. Love the videos. Thanks for all of the great info. Where are you from? I noticed your sweatshirt was from a bar in OCMD.

[@TheONE-mi7sz]

Would you put a thermostat for that UTH or you just didn’t since thats just a demonstration?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Erick. I do recommend having a UTH linked to a thermostat. It was not used in the video since it was a demonstration.

[@rogerstenstromk5mow715]

enjoyed this video.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

I'm glad!

[@ailsabond5351]

what about the drainage layer?

[@sixoffcenter80]

I'd love to see a video on a your moss spore mix. some tips on using it.

[@Lorianne191]

What size enclosure does a ball python need for its life

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Lorraine. I recommend at least a 75g (48x18x22)

[@Lorianne191]

The Bio Dude Josh Halter Thank you so much

[@jabberwocky3598]

75 gallon for adult BP? 40 gallon breeder or similar size front opening exoterra is fine. Tank length is more important than height.

[@pippaari7663]

So, I have a question. Would you still do a set up like this with a Serpent Syndicate made box? I've got a 7 year old BP and want to get an order in with him next year, but would also like to do a bio set up for her as well.

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

You could. My only reservation would be regarding the depth of lip and the amount of ventilation being too low. If those were modified, I think it would work great!

[@Shaden0040]

NPK stands for Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (potash, or K getting this name from the periodic table).

[@ac9409]

What tanks do you use? I want to do a bio setup for a ball python, was thinking a 30gal. I see a lot of reptile lovers using the front open terrariums but it looks like the bottoms aren't deep enough to fit all the substrate. Can you link what tanks you use?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Ajia. I commonly use Exo Terra tanks. You're right about the lip. It's only 3-4". I typically scape the substrate back so there's a deep area for burrowing. You can use a regular fish tank if you want a really deep layer. Exo Terra is coming out with a deeper lip. It's their Paludarium style tanks.

[@aryonahbuffoni5984]

Would you post links to all or most of the materials you used ?

[@felixm8945]

I wanted to make my boa c. i. terrarium bioactive. Should i do it just like this or am i supposed to change something?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Felix. I would add more spagmoss and have a deeper layer of substrate to accommodate the boa's higher humidity needs. Also, the plant selection would be slightly different as the boas are semi arboreal.

[@AnonYmous-hz1je]

I’m building a 50 (36x18x18) gal for a ball python, how many bags of your terra firma would you suggest?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

One 36 quart bag.

[@yuriplisetsky2302]

What was the soil you used called?

[@46Fredrick]

Hey do you sell kits like these I'm trying to set up a bio terrarium like this for a ball python I'm new to all this but I want as healthy a snake as possible

[@flicksfn965]

La' Fredrick Jackson yah he does on his website

[@leahaloysiaadkins2928]

What are you looking at as far as cost to put that together?

[@nikkig5306]

I am looking at getting a ball python ... I am looking at different ways to do my tank. So I have a couple questions ... 1) once this is put together, is there any maintenance other then keeping the plants alive? Cleaning? Updating? 2) I am getting a young one, was born September of 2018. Can I get a bigger size to handle him through full growth?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Nikki. The only maintenance aside from misting your enclosure and watering the plants appropriately is feeding your soil biodegradables such as spagmoss and leaf litter when your layer gets low. I usually average every 3 months or so. The beauty of bioactivity is your micro fauna takes care of the clean up. That being said, snakes have large fecal deposits and your biome may require spot picking for the first few weeks until your microfauna is well established. I like using the bugs with The BioShot for larger snakes as the break down time seems to be faster. You can absolutely go big with the enclosure, just make sure it heavily decorated so that your snake feels safe and secure.

[@yungtatertott3317]

can snake mites develope in a bio active tank or naw

[@cjfilmssk8progression466]

No

[@yungtatertott3317]

@@cjfilmssk8progression466 thx

[@Luismartinez-cm2mb]

I need to buy terra firma but unsure how much I need, are these bags the 36Q bags?

[@aurorachan7568]

do i need to wait for the bioactive materials to be stabilized before I put my snake into the terrarium?

[@TheBioDudeJoshHalter]

Hi Aurora. You can let your tank sit and establish, but I'm usually too impatient and add my animals right away with no adverse affects. It is up to you.

[@damona361]

how often do you actually have to clean out the tank, change the substrate etc?

[@JesseyJymsFitness]

Damon Ataei you don’t, the microfauna, springtails and isopods clean it for you and eat any Mold and waste. You only have to add leaf litter, water plants and mist

[@damona361]

@@JesseyJymsFitness and in regards to hearing and lighting, what is best to use?

[@JesseyJymsFitness]

Damon Ataei I’m pretty sure UV LED lighting is best for plants and I use a RHP ( radiant heat panel) also there are better guides then this video. You should build a drainage layer using lava rocks or hydro balls and a plant mesh cloth overtop to separate your substrate from the rocks or hydro balls that you use. You add a charcoal layer to your substrate aswell when adding the springtails. You should look up joshfrogs. It’s much more in depth then this 5 easy step idiots guide. There is way more too it then just dumping in soil and bugs with some plants. You can kill or seriously harm your animal if you don’t take care of the bio active vivarium before you house your animal in there.

[@kidvicious2227]

I need help bad. I bought all my stuff from the bio dude. Which is all great, tank looks awesome! But I have a zoomed heat mate the substrate temp is at 70 on the hot side, up a little higher its 73. The cold side is 65 on the sub and 67 up the tank a bit. I also have a 100w ceramic heater on top of the hot side. Im so ready to give up

[@hylaarborea1090]

Uhh, so its too hot ?

[@POWDERNPELLTS]

I have just came across this video I am currently lookin into creating a bio setup for my year old male ball I believe i have a 30 gal tall setup right now looking into a 50 or 100 gal because he is around 3 maybe 4 ft as of now so what would you recommend I start with, thank you, your products are great btw my wife and I use mostly biodude products for our crested gecko