Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hello all,

I was reading that article in Reptiles Magazine on setting up a vivarium. My question is about the packaging peanuts they suggest using as the first layer. Has anyone done this? If so, where did you get peanuts that you knew to be non-toxic and non-biodegradable?

Thanks!

Aaron

Aaron,
I read that also. I had bought a box from Office Max for $13.00 and some change. After I got to thinking about it I decided to leave the bottom of the false bottom empty. I felt like it was just one more thing that would eventually need changing and did not want the mess. I made the false bottom with the egg crate, covered it with fiberglass window screen, the very fine, soft kind, placed larger aquarium pebbles on that, some sphagnum moss and then the coco bedding. The water is re-circulated by a pump.
I am really glad that I went that way. I can show you some photos of mine if you would like. If you do decide to go with the peanuts just make sure you get the "s" curve kind. The kind that looks like a short, fat, stumpy noodle with dissolve in water.
Hope this helps.
Rhonda
www.etwildlifephotography.com

How to test them....take a few and place them in a cup, if they dissolve, do not use them. Most of the colored styro peanuts are ok to use.
Link

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Quality Captives