A paludarium is a type of vivarium that incorporates both terrestrial and aquatic elements in an enclosed container. The word "paludarium" comes from the Latin word "palus," meaning marsh or swamp, and "-arium," which refers to an enclosed container. Paludaria can range in size from small, easily displayed boxes to biospheres large enough to contain entire trees. They may be maintained for purely aesthetic reasons or for scientific or horticultural purposes. Paludaria can be made from small modifications to existing vivariums, by either adding water to a terrarium or land to an aquarium. The animals that are most suited for a paludarium are the animals that naturally live in water/land type environments, swamps, marshes, or mangroves. Paludariums can be used to house a variety of aquatic animals, plants, and terrariums, and they provide an environment that helps them thrive while looking great. Some common features of a paludarium include:

• Terrestrial and aquatic elements: Paludaria incorporate both land and water elements in the same container.

• Fauna: Paludaria can house a variety of animals, including amphibians, fish, reptiles, insects, and even birds.

• Flora: Paludaria can contain a variety of plant species, including aquatic plants, terrestrial plants, and plants that can grow in both environments.

• Separating land and water: Paludaria can be created by separating land and water in various ways, such as creating a "shelf" of floating land over the water or raising the land over the water level.

• Achieving a natural look: Foam sealant can be used to hide tubes, grates, pots, and plastic, and can be carved for a natural rugged look. Natural shelf or land areas can be covered with dirt and rocks to create a more natural look.