Bioactive Substrate

The Exo Terra Rain Forest is a 100% natural, biogradable reptile substrate mixture made from sustainable Maritime Pine & Sphagnum moss. Rain Forest terrarium substrate is the ideal decorative substrate to create natural planted terrarium set-ups for humidity-loving reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates from tropical rainforest environments. The Rain Forest substrate regulates the terrarium's humidity in a natural way by absorbing and slowly releasing moisture. Its hygroscopic properties is maximised by adding natural sphagnum moss to the mixture. Adequate air humidity levels aid in shedding and help prevent respiratory infections. The unique size and shape of the bark particles, in combination with natural sphagnum moss, allow frequent irrigation of your plants while still providing good aeration for healthy root growth. Exo Terra Rain Forest is heat-treated to reduce bacterial contamination.

Bioactive Volcanic Substrate

The Exo Terra Sub Stratum is collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the Aso Volcano in Japan. The natural volcanic soil, formed from andesitic and rhyolitic tephra, is very nutrient rich, ideal for lush plant growth in bioactive planted terrariums. The porous surface allows for excellent drainage and aeration, supporting strong root growth. The Sub Stratum?s friable, low density structure promotes a flourishing population of beneficial, nitrifying bacteria, creating a self-sustaining, living terrarium ecosystem. The active beneficial bacteria of the soil will decompose biological waste, keeping the terrarium clean and healthy.

Bioactive Volcanic Substrate

• Natural bioactive soil
• With live beneficial bacteria
• Keeps the terrarium clean & healthy
• Eliminates ammonia & odours
• Great drainage capabilities
• Ideal for bioactive planted terrariums

3 Ways to use Sub Stratum

1. As a sole substrate
2. As a drainage layer
3. Mixed in with other substrates

Sole Substrate
When Exo Terra's Sub Stratum is used as the sole substrate, add a layer of 1-2" (2,5 - 5 cm) to the terrarium. The live bacteria will activate when the substrate comes in contact with water or waste. The organic matter such as left over food and animal waste will decompose over time. The absorbing properties of volcanic ash will eliminate odours by trapping the decomposed materials. Rinse the Sub Stratum and replace partly every 12 months.

Drainage Layer
Add a top layer of biological substrate to the Exo Terra's Sub Stratum layer for optimal bioactivity and drainage. Plants can be secured in the top layer (eg. Exo Terra's Plantation Soil) while their roots will thrive in the sub layer of Sub Stratum - resulting in optimal growth.

Additionally, an inorganic layer can be added first for even better drainage (Exo Terra's BioDrain) to allow excess water to flow through the substrate to avoid saturation and anaerobic bacteria to outcompete the beneficial bacteria in the Sub Stratum substrate. Use the BioDrain Mesh to separate the BioDrain layer from organic matter to penetrate the underlying layer.

Use a top layer of leaf litter to provide dry areas, shelter and dwelling surfaces for all organisms in the terrarium. In the meantime it will prevent evaporation of the underlying layers.

Mixed-in
The secret to growing healthy plants begins with the soil. Naturally, healthy soil contains living microorganisms ? from bacteria to fungi, protozoa and arthropods. Together they form a choreographed exchange from the recycling of nutrients to the decomposition of organic materials.

By mixing the Sub Stratum with other organic substrates, you enrich any substrate with the required minerals like calcium, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. It also aids in the water retention capacity and provide adequate air supply to the roots.

Ingredients: Natural Volcanic Soil (Andisol), Active Carbon, Live beneficial bacteria (Bacillus)

Bioactive Volcanic Substrate

The Exo Terra Sub Stratum is collected from the mineral-rich foothills of the Aso Volcano in Japan. The natural volcanic soil, formed from andesitic and rhyolitic tephra, is very nutrient rich, ideal for lush plant growth in bioactive planted terrariums. The porous surface allows for excellent drainage and aeration, supporting strong root growth. The Sub Stratum?s friable, low density structure promotes a flourishing population of beneficial, nitrifying bacteria, creating a self-sustaining, living terrarium ecosystem. The active beneficial bacteria of the soil will decompose biological waste, keeping the terrarium clean and healthy.

Bioactive Volcanic Substrate

• Natural bioactive soil
• With live beneficial bacteria
• Keeps the terrarium clean & healthy
• Eliminates ammonia & odours
• Great drainage capabilities
• Ideal for bioactive planted terrariums

3 Ways to use Sub Stratum

1. As a sole substrate
2. As a drainage layer
3. Mixed in with other substrates

Sole Substrate
When Exo Terra's Sub Stratum is used as the sole substrate, add a layer of 1-2" (2,5 - 5 cm) to the terrarium. The live bacteria will activate when the substrate comes in contact with water or waste. The organic matter such as left over food and animal waste will decompose over time. The absorbing properties of volcanic ash will eliminate odours by trapping the decomposed materials. Rinse the Sub Stratum and replace partly every 12 months.

Drainage Layer
Add a top layer of biological substrate to the Exo Terra's Sub Stratum layer for optimal bioactivity and drainage. Plants can be secured in the top layer (eg. Exo Terra's Plantation Soil) while their roots will thrive in the sub layer of Sub Stratum - resulting in optimal growth.

Additionally, an inorganic layer can be added first for even better drainage (Exo Terra's BioDrain) to allow excess water to flow through the substrate to avoid saturation and anaerobic bacteria to outcompete the beneficial bacteria in the Sub Stratum substrate. Use the BioDrain Mesh to separate the BioDrain layer from organic matter to penetrate the underlying layer.

Use a top layer of leaf litter to provide dry areas, shelter and dwelling surfaces for all organisms in the terrarium. In the meantime it will prevent evaporation of the underlying layers.

Mixed-in
The secret to growing healthy plants begins with the soil. Naturally, healthy soil contains living microorganisms ? from bacteria to fungi, protozoa and arthropods. Together they form a choreographed exchange from the recycling of nutrients to the decomposition of organic materials.

By mixing the Sub Stratum with other organic substrates, you enrich any substrate with the required minerals like calcium, nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus. It also aids in the water retention capacity and provide adequate air supply to the roots.

Ingredients: Natural Volcanic Soil (Andisol), Active Carbon, Live beneficial bacteria (Bacillus)

ProRep Drainage Medium is produced by firing ash at a high temperature. As it fires the air bubbles in the material expand to form a honeycomb of interconnected chambers and create an inert, hard and lightweight material that will hold moisture and provides a large surface area for the growth of beneficial bacteria. Used in the base of bio-active terrariums it creates a reservoir of water which moistens the substrate from below and helps to create a natural moisture gradient. The large surface area within each ball provides the ideal habitat for beneficial bacteria which will neutralise potentially harmful waste products formed within the ecosystem.

ProRep Bio Life Leaf litter is perfect for creating a secure hiding layer for animals such snakes, lizards, frogs, and salamanders. Simply add as decoration to the top layer of substrate to help create a natural forest environment. An essential addition to replicate the 'litter layer' within a bioactive enclosure.

The litter layer as well as providing security, aids in maintaining atmospheric and substrate moisture/humidity levels and most importantly it will provide the environment in which beneficial bacteria, fungi, and custodian insects such as springtails and wood lice will thrive and play their important role in your bioactive enclosure. In the 'litter layer' Bio Life Leaf litter will break down and be consumed providing much needed food to your plant life.

The litter layer within your enclosure should be at least 3-4cm deep but can be much deeper should you want to. The litter layer found in the natural habitat of many of the animals we keep will be 24-30cm at least. To create your starter litter layer, break up the leaf litter in your hands and scatter the fine pieces on top of a suitable substrate such as ProRep Bio Life Forest substrate to at least a 1cm depth. Give this a good spray to keep the layer in place. After this a layer of unbroken leaf litter can then be added. The fine layer will be broken down quicker and provide a layer for the custodians to hide, preventing them being quickly eaten by terrestrial inhabitants such as dart frogs. The unbroken layer will then provide cover and hiding places for your animals. A new layer of leaf litter should be added as the litter breaks down and is consumed at least every 4-6 months or when necessary. Ideally your 'litter layer' should be started at least 3-4 weeks before introducing your chosen species, but it is still possible to carry out this process with them already in the enclosure. Remember your custodians may require some extra feeding to keep them healthy and happy. ProRep Springtail food is the perfect accompaniment to ProRep Bio Life Leaf Litter.

ProRep Bio Life Leaf Litter contains a mix of leaves from appropriate trees such as, Poplar, Maple and Birch. Gathered from sustainable sources. ProRep Bio Life Leaf Litter is a natural product and may contain stalks and twigs.

Compressed expandable coconut fiber substrate for invertebrate pet habitats. Ideal for spiders (including tarantulas), insects and other invertebrates. Increased humidity and promotes natural burrowing behaviors.

Creatures Creature Soil is a safe, proprietary blend of natural materials, including Peat Moss, Soil, Sand, and Carbon. Great for a variety of creepy-crawlers, as well as natural plant life in habitats.

• Proprietary blend of natural materials including Peat Moss, Soil, Sand & Carbon.
• Ideal for spiders (including tarantulas), insects and other invertebrates.
• Increases humidity and promotes natural burrowing behaviors.
• Great for live plants

The Exo Terra Bamboo Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural bamboo forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the bamboo forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers; The top layer mainly consisting of fresh leaf litter (2.2l). The base layer consists of rich organic matter usually decomposed leaves & wood (6.6l)

The Exo Terra Bamboo Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural bamboo forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the bamboo forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers; The top layer mainly consisting of fresh leaf litter (1.1l). The base layer consists of rich organic matter usually decomposed leaves & wood (3.3l)

The Exo Terra Equatorial Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural equatorial forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the equatorial forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers; The top layer mainly consisting of fresh leaf litter The base layer consists of rich organic matter - usually decomposed leaves & wood The top layer consists of sun dried decorative Ardisia leaves from a sustainable resource. With this decorative top layer you can actually create the soft floor covering found in natural equatorial forests. The Ardisia leaves provide a soft layer for animals to burrow and cover their secret hideout. Most reptiles and amphibians forage the forest floor in search of food and water. The top layer covers the actual substrate underneath to facilitate its moisture retention and prevent the soil from drying out.

The Exo Terra Equatorial Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural equatorial forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the equatorial forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers; The top layer mainly consisting of fresh leaf litter The base layer consists of rich organic matter - usually decomposed leaves & wood The top layer consists of sun dried decorative Ardisia leaves from a sustainable resource. With this decorative top layer you can actually create the soft floor covering found in natural equatorial forests. The Ardisia leaves provide a soft layer for animals to burrow and cover their secret hideout. Most reptiles and amphibians forage the forest floor in search of food and water. The top layer covers the actual substrate underneath to facilitate its moisture retention and prevent the soil from drying out.

The Exo Terra Tropical Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural tropical forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the tropical forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers;

• The top layer mainly consisting of mosses & lichens
• The base layer consists of rich organic matter usually decomposed leaves & wood

The top layer consists of sun dried natural green moss from a sustainable resource. With this decorative top layer you can actually create the soft floor covering found in natural tropical forests. The sun dried green moss provides a soft layer for animals to burrow and cover their secret hideout. Most reptiles and amphibians forage the forest floor in search of food and water. The top layer covers the actual substrate underneath to facilitate its moisture retention and prevent the soil from drying out. The biodegradable moss is absolutely free of chemicals and can be safely composted in your garden.

The base layer consists of rich organic matter from sustainable ground coconut husk fiber. It is a 100% natural, ecological and biodegradable substrate with great hygroscopic properties. This base layer makes an ideal substrate to create natural planted terrarium set-ups for humidity-loving reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates. Its water retention, natural rooting hormones and anti-fungal properties promote plant growth in your terrarium. The unique coir pith used for the Exo Terra Tropical Forest Floor consists of a mixture of short fiber and coco-peat grain sizes ranging from coarse granules to fine clumps resulting in improved soil drainage and healthy plant root aeration.

The top layer of sun dried natural green moss keeps the base layer slightly moist, facilitating maintenance by functioning as a natural ecosystem where beneficial organisms will brake down waste products and thus reduce odors.

The Exo Terra Tropical Forest Floor is heat-treated to reduce bacterial contamination.

Directions for use: Spread 2-4" (5-10 cm) of the base layer on the terrarium floor. Water or mist the substrate according to the humidity level required. Place your decorative items in the terrarium, than cover the floor with the top layer of decorative natural green moss. Use an Exo Terra Hygrometer to monitor the level. To increase air humidity in well-ventilated terrariums or those with very high humidity requirements, place an Exo Terra terrarium substrate heater underneath the terrarium. Spot clean the bedding on a daily basis, and completely replace with new bedding when necessary.

The Exo Terra Tropical Forest Floor is a multi layer substrate that allows you to recreate the forest floor as found in natural tropical forests. The forest floor is one of the most distinctive features of the tropical forest ecosystem. It usually consists of two major layers; The top layer mainly consisting of mosses & lichens (1.1l). The base layer consists of rich organic matter usually decomposed leaves & wood (3.3l)

Completely natural moss cage substrate for amphibians and wetland environment reptiles.

Great for use in humidifying shelters for all types of reptiles and amphibians.

Excellent for use as an egg-laying and incubation medium for a variety of reptiles.

Additional Information: Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.

Completely natural moss cage substrate for amphibians and wetland environment reptiles.

Great for use in humidifying shelters for all types of reptiles and amphibians.

Excellent for use as an egg-laying and incubation medium for a variety of reptiles.

Additional Information: Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.

Completely natural moss cage substrate for amphibians and wetland environment reptiles.

Great for use in humidifying shelters for all types of reptiles and amphibians.

Excellent for use as an egg-laying and incubation medium for a variety of reptiles.

Additional Information: Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.

Completely natural moss cage substrate for amphibians and wetland environment reptiles.

Great for use in humidifying shelters for all types of reptiles and amphibians.

Excellent for use as an egg-laying and incubation medium for a variety of reptiles.

Additional Information: Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.

Exo Terra BioDrain Terrarium Draining Substrate is a natural, non-organic substrate that allows excellent drainage of the terrarium. It will not rot or decompose like other natural substrates. The optional BioDrain Terrarium Draining Mesh will keep the BioDrain Terrarium Draining Substrate separated from the decorative terrarium top-layer substrate and prevent the different substrates from mixing and contaminating the water. The BioDrain Terrarium Draining Substrate will function as a biological filtration system. The clean terrarium water can then be circulated in waterfalls, the Exo Terra Rain System or Dripping Plants.

• 100% natural substrate
• Ideal for natural terrarium set-ups
• Perfect for humidity loving reptiles
• Stimulates natural digging and burrowing behaviour
• Nutritional substrate for live plants

• 100% natural substrate
• Ideal for natural terrarium set-ups
• Perfect for humidity loving reptiles
• Stimulates natural digging and burrowing behaviour
• Nutritional substrate for live plants

Exo Terra Forest Moss is real compressed moss grown in tropical Asia. This ecological substrate is ideal for increasing humidity in the terrarium and is totally safe for frogs, salamanders and burrowing or digging animals. The Exo Terra Forest Moss is extremely absorbent and is recommended in humidifying shelters such as the Exo Terra Snake Cave or Reptile Cave. It is also an ideal egg-laying or incubation medium.

• Completely natural forest moss (no dyes or chemicals)
• Ideal for amphibians and wetland environment reptiles
• Great for use in humidifying shelters
• Excellent for use as egg-laying and incubation medium

Exo Terra Plantation Soil is made from compressed coconut husk fibre from the plantations of tropical Asia. This ecological substrate is ideal for increasing humidity in the terrarium and is totally safe for frogs, salamanders and burrowing or digging animals. The substrate can also be used as an incubation medium because of its hygroscopic properties. This 100% natural substrate can even be used as a nutritional planting soil for live plants in a terrarium set-up.

The Hydro Fleece was developed for use with the Lucky Reptile Hydro Drain clay substrate. It prevents substrate from seeping into the drainage layer while it lets through water without problems.

Compared to solutions with nets or meshes the main advantage of the Hydro Fleece is that it also stops fine materials like humus from getting into the drainage layer. The fleece does not rot and can be easily cut to the desired size. To cover the floor in larger terrariums several pieces of Hydro Fleece can be arranged with a small overlapping area to achieve the desired layer separation effect.

For tropical terrariums Hydro Drain cannot be foregone. It is a special clay substrate which is excellent for water storage.

Hydro Drain acts as drainage layer below the normal substrate. The water seeps through the substrate and is stored in the Hydro Drain clay pieces. Once the storage capability is surpassed you can still have water standing at the vivarium floor. As long as the fill height of Hydro Drain is not surpassed the regular substrate will not get swampy.

Thanks to its water storage abilities Hydro Drain increases the humidity inside the vivarium and is excellent to supply plants with water. We recommend to add a minimum layer of 3 cm Hydro Drain and cover it with our special Hydro Fleece. On top of this the normal substrate is placed, e.g. terrarium humus.