The Bromeliaceae, or pineapple plants, are a family of monocotyledonous plants comprising between 58 and 62 genera and an estimated 2,900 to 3,180 species. Native to the Neotropics, they are well-known for their diversity and use as fruits, notably the pineapple (Ananas comosus), as well as ornamental plants. Charles Plumier named the genus Bromelia in honor of Swedish botanist Olaf Bromel, while Antoine Laurent de Jussieu formally classified this family in 1789. Bromeliads are primarily perennial herbaceous plants with persistent leaves, and a majority utilize CAM photosynthesis. They often exhibit rosette growth and are adapted to xeric environments.
Bromeliads are also highly valued in terrarium hobbyism for their unique aesthetics and low maintenance requirements. They offer a wide range of shapes, colors, and textures that visually enrich terrariums, transforming these spaces into dynamic tropical landscapes.
As epiphytes, they can easily be mounted on supports such as branches or rocks, optimizing ground space and creating micro-habitats for various terrarium animals. The water reservoirs formed by Bromeliad rosettes are particularly attractive to dendrobates and other amphibians, providing both water and breeding zones.
In terms of care, Bromeliads generally prefer bright but indirect light and require moderate watering. Humidity levels of 60-80% are ideal for their growth, which also meets the needs of many tropical terrarium animals. Popular species in terrarium hobbyism include Tillandsia, known for their ability to thrive without substrate, as well as Guzmania, Neoregelia, Vriesea, and Aechmea, each bringing distinctive characteristics and aesthetics to the terrarium environment. In summary, integrating Bromeliads into a terrarium not only provides an attractive décor but also helps create a more natural and functional habitat for the animals it houses.