Reptile & Amphibian Forums

What is the difference between the two? I know one is gray and the other is white, but what make one better then the other? I hear breeders putting vermiculite lay boxs in cages and then switching to perlite when they get the eggs. Why is this? I've used vermiculite for years, should I be switching over to perlite?
Let me know, and thanks:
Jason Mc

I've heard perlite is better, and I'll be using it on my next clutch of monitor eggs, but if vermiculite is working for you, no reason to change it.....if it ain't broke, don't fix it!

Roger what reddragon01 said. The reason I switched to perlite is because it has become hard to get around where I live. Supposedly it contains traces of asbestos. Oh, save us!!! Of course, you have to factor in fear of lawsuits in case someone contracts a disease and they used vermiculite ten years ago, but I think it's safe. I place a layer of moist sponges at the bottom of the egg box and, then, put the perlite on top. I moisten it, toss the eggs in, and voila! It's been working for me. Perlite looks prettier, too.

I have used both, but I prefer vermiculite.

I get it at Home Depot in a large bag (4 cubic ft).

Vermiculite holds water better than perlite.

Vermiculite is softer to the hatchlings than perlite.

From my understanding, vermiculite (made in the USA) does not have asbestos.

Make sure you use the bigger vermiculite, the real small stuff can get into snake's noses, etc...

But like it has been stated, try both and see what works for you. And others use different mediums as well.

Good luck

Kerby...

Jason mc