I currently use Aspen shavings, but I'm having to watch the humidity (or lack of) more often. I hear that Cypress mulch is a good alternative, but living on the west coast keeps me from affordably ataining it.
I was wondering if anyone has tried Coir mulch? The bag says that its from Sri Lanka, and its 100% organic coir husks, bi-product of the coconut. The texture is about the same as wood chips. It states that it has a highwater retention efficiency and acts as a thermal blanket. Anyone at all know how this would be for a cage substrate? Thanks for any info.
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Is this substrate safe for Boas
Morgans Boas
Mar 25, 2007 03:26 PM
Replies (5)
jasonmattes
Mar 25, 2007 10:11 PM
Why not just use dirt? Its cheap,hold humidity well and you dont have to wonder if its safe.
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Jason
markg
Mar 26, 2007 02:55 PM
I've used the coir substrates sold for reptiles - i.e. Eco-Earth, etc - for kingsnakes/milksnakes, rubberboas and baby boa constrictors. The animals have done great on it.
Just make sure the item you are considering has no chemical additives for plants. 100% coir with nothing else is what you want.
It holds moisture well and also dries quickly, so you don't get mold problems. When it dries it can be dessicating (mainly for baby snakes), so don't let it stay dry for too many days before hydrating again. Helps insulate the cage too.
The particles stick to anything wet, so you will find it in the water bowls and on your hands if they get wet. Worth it though IMO.
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Mark
Morgans Boas
Mar 26, 2007 11:36 PM
Here are some pics to illustrate that its not the fine granular-type coir that is found often in tarantula cages. This stuff in question is very similar to shredded and chipped substrate. I've moistened a small tub of it, and left it overnight under a heater, and it is very absorbant, almost odorless, and dust-free.
Thanks, David
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BenTeam
Mar 27, 2007 02:07 PM
That looks interesting....
How Hard/Soft/Abrasive is it?
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Ben Team
Mark Davis
New Paradigm Herpetoculture
Captive Bred Morelia
404-438-2135
chondro776@yahoo.com
Morgans Boas
Mar 27, 2007 07:27 PM
Its a little on the harder side, but not too much .
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