Hi.
I have been using decomposed granite (gold fines) for substrate for my savs and I have not had a prob. I feed them outside thier habitat, so they don't really eat it. Someone told me that I should just have them on newspaper because they will most likely get an impaction even if I feed outside the enclosure. I really do not want to do this because they really like the substrate now and make burrows etc.
Any comments?
Thanks in advance,
Nick
Reptile & Amphibian Forums
Welcome to kingsnake.com's message board system. Here you may share and discuss information with others about your favorite reptile and amphibian related topics such as care and feeding, caging requirements, permits and licenses, and more. Launched in 1997, the kingsnake.com message board system is one of the oldest and largest systems on the internet.
decomposed granite for substrate
herper79
Mar 05, 2006 07:28 PM
Replies (4)
JPsShadow
Mar 05, 2006 09:38 PM
Never talk to that someone again about monitor husbandry.
Pippps
Mar 06, 2006 03:27 PM
No kidding -decomp granite is supposed to be pretty good, but check out the Pro Exotics website- their substrate info is great. Actually, all their info is well written and very comprehensive.
FR
Mar 06, 2006 06:58 PM
As I have so many better options. Lots of desert soils around here.
The problem with granite is. It depends on the source. If you buy it, it can be manifacturered and very course with sharp edges. Or if you collect it, you have to pick the right area and type.
Of course monitors do live in granitic areas. But they pick the right areas to use. That goes for all areas with all soils.
The point is, its not a case of one works all the way and another does not. Its about degrees of how well a particular type works. For instance, when they grind it up, it actually makes dye and this dye is absorbed in the skin of the monitors. Sometimes its nice, other types it turns them to dirt.
One type may require lots of maintanence, another type hardly any. See what I mean?
In order to know what works better, you simply must start with something and find out what is right for you. When you see a problem, you can discuss the problem, etc.
What I find odd is, people here only give types of dirt a thumbs up, or thumbs down, when I see all sorts of areas in the middle. Good luck
robyn@ProExotics
Mar 07, 2006 10:37 PM
Chad recently decided to try 50/50 topsoil and DG, and it has actually made a terrific mix 
i think we might work that way on a lot of cages, it really has a nice workability. funny the possibities that sit right under your nose. for years.
i might have to add another FAQ soil update
-----
robyn@proexotics.com
