Substrates: Selecting the Proper Substrate for Your Vivarium
Substrates can seem complex due to the wide range of options available, but it doesn’t have to be that way.
This guide provides practical advice for selecting the right substrate for your vivarium and helps you narrow down your choices.
The first thing to know is there are two approaches to substrate: making your own mix or buying ready-made substrates, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.
ready-made substrates
Ready-made substrates offer convenience as you can simply purchase the appropriate sized bag and start using it. They have pre-determined ratios of ingredients to ensure proper moisture, drainage, and nutrients. The Bio Dude is a highly recommended resource, offering six different mixes tailored to specific animals and humidity levels.
I have personally used and recommend both the Terra Flora and Terra Fauna mixes. Terra Flora is ideal for high humidity setups like poison dart frogs and tree frogs, while Terra Fauna is suitable for medium to high humidity setups with better ventilation, such as crested geckos.
One product that recommend not using is Zilla Jungle Mix. Maybe it’s just me, but every time I work with it, I end up with tiny hair-like pieces stuck in my fingers like splinters and need tweezers to remove them!
recommended Products
mixing your own substrate
Mixing your own substrate can be cost-effective when building multiple vivariums or a large one. However, for a single vivarium, it may be more economical to purchase a ready-made mix. Mixing your own substrate allows you to tailor it to your specific needs, but it requires some experience with different mixtures.
If you choose to mix your own substrate, you should aim for a mixture that retains moisture and humidity, provides drainage, and offers nutrients. An ABG Mix substrate, developed by the Atlanta Botanical Gardens, consists of tree fern fiber, peat or coco-coir, charcoal, sphagnum moss, and orchid bark. This recipe works well for both tropical and temperate setups and can also be purchased ready-made.
It's worth noting that peat, a common ingredient, is not sustainably harvested. As an alternative, coco-coir is a suitable substitute. However, avoid using coconut fiber or other ingredients alone, as they can lead to soil compaction, poor microfauna support, and potentially hazardous anaerobic conditions. They can be used as ingredients in a mixture, but not as standalone options.
It is crucial to inspect the ingredient list and avoid the presence of fertilizers and chemicals in your substrate. When uncertain, it is always better to err on the side of caution and prioritize the safety of your vivarium inhabitants.
common Ingredients
• Charcoal
substrate toppers
Regardless of the approach you choose, it is uncommon for individuals to leave the substrate on its own without further additions. It is highly recommended to enhance the substrate by incorporating elements such as sheet moss, leaf litter, and botanicals on top.
Not only does this contribute to the visual realism of the vivarium, but it also plays a crucial role in creating an optimal environment for a thriving cleanup crew. These added layers will provide essential habitats and food sources, fostering a balanced ecosystem within your vivarium.
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In summary, for beginners seeking a hassle-free approach, opting for a ready-made substrate mix is the recommended choice. These mixes offer convenience, with carefully calibrated ratios of ingredients to ensure proper moisture, drainage, and nutrient balance.
The Bio Dude's diverse range of substrates, such as Terra Flora and Terra Fauna, are well-regarded options. However, if you have experience and are willing to invest the time, mixing your own substrate allows for customization and potential cost savings. Just remember to consider the specific needs of your vivarium and use appropriate ingredients.
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