A biome in a box system comprising a transparent external container having a first size and a top edge and a transparent internal container having a second size configured to fit within the external container. The internal container is for placement of a habitat and has at least one handle configured to hang over and suspend from the top edge of the external container. The system further includes a hinged lid having a side wall extending over the at least one handle and the top edge and a drain assembly under the transparent internal container.