Introduction

Bearded dragons are popular pets because of their docile nature, ease of care, and longevity. These reptiles are native to Australia and can live up to 20 years with proper care. One of the most important factors in their care is providing an adequate tank size. In this article, we will discuss the best tank size for adult bearded dragons, taking into account their size, behavior, and habitat needs. This guide is perfect for beginners who are considering owning a bearded dragon as a pet.

Why Tank Size Matters

As captive animals, bearded dragons rely on their owners to provide them with a proper living environment. The tank is their home, and it’s essential to ensure that it meets their needs. One of the most important factors in their health and well-being is tank size. An inadequate tank can lead to stress, poor health, and even death.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a tank for your bearded dragon, several factors need to be considered. These include their size, behavior, and habitat needs. Bearded dragons are semi-arboreal animals and require both horizontal and vertical space. They also need a basking area, a cooler area, and a place to hide. The tank should be easy to clean, escape-proof, and provide adequate ventilation.

Size

Adult bearded dragons can grow up to 24 inches in length, including their tail. As a general rule, the tank size should be at least 1.5 times the length of the bearded dragon. This means that a fully-grown bearded dragon should have a tank that is at least 36 inches long. However, this is a minimum size, and a larger tank is always better. A larger tank provides more space for the bearded dragon to move around and explore, which can improve their physical and mental health.

Behavior

Bearded dragons are active during the day and require plenty of space to move around. They also require a basking area, which should be 105-110 degrees Fahrenheit, and a cooler area, which should be 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. The tank should also provide a place to hide, which can help the bearded dragon feel safe and secure. A hide box can be a simple cardboard box or a commercially available hide.

Habitat Needs

Bearded dragons are native to arid regions of Australia and require a dry, sandy substrate in their tank. They also require access to UVB lighting, which is essential for their health. The lighting should be on for 10-12 hours per day and replaced every six months. The tank should also be cleaned regularly to prevent bacterial growth and odor. A bearded dragon’s diet should consist of insects, greens, and occasionally, fruits. Live insects should be dusted with a calcium supplement before feeding.

Recommended Tank Sizes

Based on the factors above, the following are recommended tank sizes for adult bearded dragons:

40 Gallon Tank

A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size for an adult bearded dragon. It measures 36 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 18 inches high. While this is the minimum size, we recommend going larger if possible. This tank can house a bearded dragon up to 22 inches in length.

75 Gallon Tank

A 75-gallon tank measures 48 inches long, 18 inches wide, and 21 inches high, and can house a bearded dragon up to 30 inches in length. This size provides more room for the bearded dragon to move around and explore.

120 Gallon Tank

A 120-gallon tank measures 48 inches long, 24 inches wide, and 24 inches high, and can house a bearded dragon over 30 inches in length. This size provides ample space for a large bearded dragon and allows for plenty of enrichment opportunities.

Conclusion

Providing an adequate tank size for your bearded dragon is essential for their health and well-being. The tank should be large enough to accommodate their size, behavior, and habitat needs. A 40-gallon tank is the minimum size for an adult bearded dragon, but we recommend going larger if possible. A larger tank provides more space for your bearded dragon to move around and explore, which can improve their physical and mental health. Now that you know the recommended tank sizes for adult bearded dragons, you can choose the right size for your pet with confidence.