Introduction

If you’re a beginner bearded dragon owner, you might be wondering if you can keep your pet in a fish tank. After all, they look similar, right? But before you go ahead and put your bearded dragon in a fish tank, there are some things you need to consider. In this post, we’ll explore some tips and facts to help you answer the question: can you put a bearded dragon in a fish tank?

The Short Answer: No

The short answer to this question is no, you should not put a bearded dragon in a fish tank. Fish tanks are not designed to provide the necessary conditions for a bearded dragon to thrive, and it can lead to health problems and even death. Bearded dragons require specific environmental conditions to stay healthy and happy, and a fish tank just won’t cut it.

Why Fish Tanks are Not Suitable for Bearded Dragons

There are several reasons why fish tanks are not suitable for bearded dragons. One of the main reasons is that bearded dragons require a specific temperature range to regulate their body temperature, and fish tanks don’t usually provide this. Bearded dragons need a basking area where they can heat themselves, and a cooler area where they can cool down. Fish tanks also don’t usually have enough space for bearded dragons to move around, exercise and explore.

Another issue is that fish tanks are usually made of glass, which can easily cause stress and anxiety in bearded dragons. When bearded dragons see their reflection in the glass, they may think it’s another bearded dragon and become agitated. This can lead to a lot of stress and ultimately affect their health.

What Kind of Enclosure is Suitable for Bearded Dragons?

Now that we’ve established that fish tanks are not ideal for bearded dragons, you might be wondering what kind of enclosure is best for them. Ideally, a bearded dragon enclosure should be made of solid materials such as wood, PVC, or melamine. It should also be spacious enough to allow the bearded dragon to move around and exercise.

A suitable enclosure for a bearded dragon should also have a heating and lighting system that can provide the necessary temperature gradient. Bearded dragons require a basking area with a temperature of 95-105°F, and a cooler area with a temperature of 75-85°F. A UVB lamp is also necessary to provide the bearded dragon with the necessary UVB radiation, which is crucial for their health.

Tips for Beginner Bearded Dragon Owners

1. Do Your Research

Before getting a bearded dragon, it’s important to do your research and educate yourself on their needs and requirements. This will help you provide the best possible care for your pet.

2. Provide the Right Environment

As we’ve discussed, bearded dragons require a specific environment to stay healthy and happy. Make sure you provide the right enclosure, heating and lighting system, and substrate for your bearded dragon.

3. Feed Them a Balanced Diet

Bearded dragons are omnivores, and they require a balanced diet of protein, plant matter, and vegetables. Make sure you provide a variety of foods and supplement their diet with calcium and vitamin D3.

4. Handle Your Bearded Dragon Properly

Bearded dragons can be very docile and friendly, but they still require proper handling. Make sure you handle your bearded dragon gently and support their body properly.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you should not put a bearded dragon in a fish tank. They require specific environmental conditions to stay healthy and happy, and a fish tank just won’t provide that. Make sure you do your research and provide the best possible care for your pet, and you’ll have a happy and healthy bearded dragon for years to come.