An aqua terrarium (or "aquaterrarium") blends a small water feature with a planted terrarium, a mossy landscape meeting a little pool or stream. A DIY kit bundles the vessel, substrate and décor so you can build one in an afternoon.
What makes it "aqua"
Unlike a standard terrarium, an aqua terrarium has a defined water section alongside the land, a pond, a trickle, or a shoreline of pebbles. That opens the door to moisture-loving mosses and ferns, and even semi-aquatic plants, plus reflections and movement that a dry terrarium can't offer. It sits somewhere between a terrarium and a tiny paludarium.
Building one
The key is separating "wet" from "damp": a barrier (often a low ridge of stone or a mesh) keeps the open water from waterlogging the planted soil. Build the land side up from drainage, charcoal and substrate as usual, shape a basin for the water, and finish with pebbles at the waterline. Keep it out of direct sun to limit algae, and top up the water as it evaporates.
Where to buy
Browse aqua terrarium kits or complete DIY kits see our kits guide and the closed terrarium guide for the planting basics.
FAQ
What is an aqua terrarium? A terrarium combining a planted land area with a small open-water feature, suiting moisture-loving and semi-aquatic plants.
Does the water need a pump? A still pool doesn't; a moving stream or waterfall needs a small pump. Change or top up still water regularly to keep it fresh.
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