Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Can anyone tell me what I need to use in the deli cups for a substrate to incubate the eggs? I've heard many different versions, from Vermiculite/Pearlite combinations to just plain potting soil. If anyone can tell me what works best, including ratios I would very much appreciate it. Thanks!

We use vermiculite about 2:1 vermiculite to water by weight.

Basically we lean towards dryer, after mixing the water it will feel damp but when you pinch a small amount between your finger and thumb and then you squeeze no water drips should come out.

If eggs start to dent (dimple)after being in the incubator for any time add water to the vermiculite away from the eggs and they will plump back up.

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Tom and Jackie Vandiver

Bearded Dragons and More!

I guess Vermiculite has trace amounts of asbestos ... not good
Potting soil is hard to sterilize ... also not good

Tap water has minerals, metals and a whole bunch of other unwanted stuff in it.
distilled water has a significant amount of dissolved copper in it
Spring water is just boiled water from some fishing hole.

Perlite is what I use, along with Reverse Osmosis filtered water. I use close to a one to one ratio of water to perlite by weight, and add more if needed. My BD hatch rates are 100% for this year and last.
D K REPTILE

Should I cover the deli cups with a lid or leave them open air? Also, does the incubator need to stay in complete darkness? Sorry for the ignorant questions, I just don't want to mess up. Thanks again for all the help!

I use moist vermiculite
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-Lauren

~ Lauren's Lizards ~

groups.yahoo.com/group/LaurensLizards