Bio-active Substrate

[ron_peters]

Hey Guys
Has anyone had luck setting up some Bio-active substrate in their enclosures, im not really into making a full vivarium with real plants but would like to try the substrate at least as a starter.
Ive read a few things online but would really like to hear other ppls "recipes" for success
cheers

 

[mad_at_arms]

I made a tank for my spotted marsh frogs with live plants. I used 5cm of rinsed scoria rock covered with dense flyscreen mesh (this allows for drainage) laid over. A mix of coco peat and play sand patted down about 10cm deep. Soon after I covered the substrate with river stones as it was sticking to my frogs. I also used soil from my garden (that is pesticide and chemical free) around the base of my plants. I used a Dracena and a Pyth..a..something endron. Both plants are suitable for low light. I have some sort of plant that grows like a mat that I planted and it thrives also.
I water maybe once a week and that is a medium misting at best.
Hope that helps.

 

[ron_peters]

cheers that is helpful, do you know what is involved with things like fungi and bacteria growth to help keep things like faeces in check?

 

[elogov]

Hey bud i guy on here called "Insane" has successfully used/ uses a live plants/Substrate he made a thread a while ago which i think you might find very usefull here's the link http://www.aussiepythons.com/forum/diy-zone-5392/new-live-enclosure-jungle-python-160897/

It's got some pretty good info on the subject.