Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Recently stumbled across ingredient information for the brand of topsoil I have for my ackies (had them for about 2 weeks now). The site mentions they add compost to their topsoil(nothing on the actual label of the of the bags mentioned any additives).

Is this a problem? I know its probably a stupid question because i would figure dirt is dirt(topsoil)which basically is decomposing matter and is is definitely not "clean" by any standards. I mean any type topsoil contains some degree of compost, right?

Obviously something like manure being added to topsoil would be a problem, but is compost a similar "no-no" for soil?

...god i hope i dont have to replace 160lbs of dirt.

Compost usually refers to rotting plant matter that actually acts like natural fertilizer.If it said it was enhanced with chemicals I might worry,but compost NO.

Ackies are an arid land monitor, they perfer poor soils. Its my feeling that ackies and many other monitors habitats are determined by soil type.

In my opinion, topsoils for ackies are not suitable. Also, I get the feeling the compost your talking about is cow manure. Cheers

Actually, the info on the site shows they have a different product of topsoil altogether that they specifically add manure too, so who really knows.

You mentioned soil being poor substrate? I mix in about 30-50% sand with it. As soon as i get my camera up i'll take a pick of my setup and would appreciate your opinion, good or bad.

Dirts in arid regions have little to no decomposing vegetation(compost).

Dirts in fertile/wet regions typically have more 'compost' in them (because alot more vegetation grows in humid environments)

I've never had much luck with mixing (I've mixed something similiar for jobiensis). Usually it's like Vinegar and oil, it eventually becomes sand and dirt (or whatever), and needs to be remixed.

--Robert