vivarium

A vivarium is an area, usually enclosed, for keeping and raising animals or plants for observation or research. Often, a portion of the ecosystem for a particular species is simulated on a smaller scale, with controls for environmental conditions.

Plants can be kept as well as animals. An enclosure and a simulated ecosystem are common features, but are not mandatory in every vivarium.

A zoo is defined by animal display for zoological interest or entertainment. A vivarium can instead be maintained for research without a public display function.