Biotopo DendroFoam Filtermat for Terrarium

Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums is a drainage and construction mat developed specifically for Biotopo for use in tropical terrariums, paludariums, and bioactive enclosures. The filter mat is manufactured in a German factory according to our own specifications. We have deliberately sought to achieve the ideal balance between water permeability, strength, weight, and thickness. The result is a high-quality drainage base that easily allows excess water to pass through while providing sufficient support for substrate, plants, wood, and rocks.

Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums, German Quality

DendroFoam is not just another off-the-shelf filter mat marketed for terrarium use. The mat is manufactured specifically for Biotopo, with a focus on the practical requirements of a set-up terrarium. The open PPI 20-cell structure allows spray and poured water to easily drain down to the lower drainage zone. At the same time, the extra-sturdy material composition prevents the substrate from compressing or collapsing quickly.

Filter mats with the same PPI rating can vary significantly in terms of load-bearing capacity. The Biotopo version is sturdier than many standard PPI 20 filter mats. As a result, the mat provides a reliable foundation for a natural substrate setup with terrarium substrate, plants, cork bark, roots, and carefully placed rocks.

A 4 cm thick, water-permeable drainage substrate

In a tropical terrarium, moisture regularly enters the substrate through spraying, misting, and watering. If this water cannot drain away properly, the lower portion of the substrate may remain saturated for long periods. DendroFoam creates an open drainage zone beneath the substrate, thereby helping to separate the wettest layer of soil from the plant roots.

The 4-centimeter thickness was chosen deliberately. The mat provides enough space for drainage and temporary collection of excess water without taking up unnecessary height in the terrarium. This ensures that there is sufficient space available for substrate, plants, decorative materials, and the animals themselves.

The black color is barely noticeable against the glass and can easily be concealed behind soil, moss, leaf litter, or other ground cover.

Extra Support for Wood, Rocks, and Plants

A richly decorated terrarium demands more from the drainage substrate than simply supporting a thin layer of substrate. Pieces of wood, plants, rocks, and built-in elevation changes can cause a standard filter mat to compress in certain areas. DendroFoam’s extra-sturdy structure distributes the weight more evenly and helps prevent the built-up substrate from visibly collapsing over time.

This gives you more freedom when designing your patio. You can create raised planting areas, build lightweight patios, and position pieces of wood more securely. Leftover pieces can be used as supports under a raised section or as a lightweight base for natural changes in elevation.

Always place heavy rocks carefully and check that the entire structure is stable. The Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums provides sturdy support, but it does not replace additional safety measures for heavy or stacked rock structures.

Lightweight alternative to loose drainage pellets

Hydro pellets, gravel, and lava rock can make a fully set-up terrarium significantly heavier. Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums is lightweight, and a single sheet covers an area of 50 × 50 centimeters. This makes the terrarium easier to handle during setup, maintenance, or relocation.

The fixed support structure does not shift during setup, making it easier to create an even substrate. For larger terrariums, multiple sheets can be placed tightly side by side. For non-standard dimensions, corners, and technical components, you can easily cut the material to size with a sharp knife or a pair of sturdy scissors.

Safe for terrarium animals and retains its shape over the long term

DendroFoam is free of harmful substances and is manufactured specifically for terrarium use without any added chemicals. The synthetic material contains no organic components, does not rot, and retains its shape over the long term even in warm and humid environments. The filter mat is delivered clean and free of mold and bacteria.

In a bioactive terrarium, beneficial microorganisms can naturally colonize the open-cell structure over time. This is part of the development of a living terrarium substrate and does not damage the filter mat itself.

DendroFoam is suitable for tropical enclosures housing, among others, poison dart frogs, tree frogs, geckos, small reptiles, and invertebrates. The sheet also provides a practical base for draining excess water in densely planted terrariums and paludariums.

Features of the Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums

Colour

Instructions for Use for DendroFoam

Cut the Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums to the desired size using a sharp knife or sturdy scissors. Place the mat flat on the clean bottom of the empty terrarium. For larger enclosures, use multiple mats placed tightly side by side, and cut out any necessary openings in advance for a drain pipe, pump, cable, or tubing.

When using fine terrarium substrate, cover DendroFoam with a water-permeable mesh. This prevents small substrate particles from getting deep into the open-cell structure, while allowing excess water to continue flowing freely to the drainage zone. Next, apply the substrate and place plants, wood, and stones securely on the prepared base.

Check regularly to see how much water has collected under the filter mat. Remove excess water as needed using a drain tube, siphon hose, or small pump. Under normal use, the Biotopo DendroFoam Filter Mat for Terrariums does not need to be replaced as long as the mat remains firm, clean, and well-draining.