ExoTerra Sub Stratum Bioactive Terraium Substrate 8.8Lb

6 in stock now at our store in Arcata
In-Store price today: $ 33.99

Exo Terra Sub Stratum - Bioactive Volcanic Substrate - 4 kg (8.8 lb)

3 Ways to use Sub Stratum:

• As a sole substrate
• As a drainage layer
• Mixed in with other substrates

Sole Substrate

When Exo Terra's Sub Stratum is used as the sole substrate, add a layer of 2,5 - 5 cm (1 - 2 in) to the terrarium. The live bacteria will activate when the substrate comes in contact with water or waste. The organic matter such as leftover 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 (e.g., 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 provides adequate air supply to the roots.

Key Features:

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