I know that perlite is commonly used as an incubation medium but I was wondering if it is or could be used as a substrate, maybe for species that require some humidity- Anyone heard of this being done?
-Zach
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AIM sn: z10silver
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perlite
z10silver
Jul 12, 2007 12:12 PM
Replies (2)
erikm
Jul 12, 2007 12:44 PM
I have seen this question asked before and it is generally best to stay away from perlite as a substrate. First off, its expensive. Second, I wouldn't want a snake to ingest it.
Stick to newspaper, aspen or paper towel 
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Balls, Milks & Coxi!
Conserving_herps
Jul 12, 2007 12:59 PM
Zach,
Erik is correct about the possibility of the snake ingesting perlite if used as a substrate. I would also suggest to add/use spanish moss as a way to increase humidity. Soak the spanish moss well using tap water and then squeeze a big chunk in your hand until no more dripping...then expand the wet moss and place it around the terrarium. That's what we do at the zoo with the frogs and amphibians to maintain a high degree of humidity.
The only problem with this is if the snake poops on it, you have to replace it with new spanish moss to prevent bacteria from flourishing in your cage.
later...
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RAY - "Laziness is nothing more than a habit of resting before getting tired!"
