Bioactive Volcanic Substrate Natural bioactive soil With living beneficial bacteria Keeps the terrarium clean and healthy Eliminates ammonia and odors Excellent drainage capabilities Ideal for bioactive planted terrariums The Sub Stratum Exo Terra is sourced from the mineral-rich foothills of Mount Aso in Japan. The natural volcanic soil, made of andesitic and rhyolitic tephra, is very nutrient-rich, perfect for lush plant growth in bioactive planted terrariums. The porous surface allows for excellent drainage and aeration, supporting robust root growth. The loose and low-density structure of the Sub Stratum promotes a thriving population of nitrifying beneficial bacteria, creating a living and self-sufficient terrarium ecosystem. Active beneficial soil bacteria will break down biological waste, keeping the terrarium clean and healthy. 3 ways to use Sub Stratum: As a standalone substrate As a drainage layer Mixed Standalone Substrate When Exo Terra Sub Stratum is used as a standalone substrate, add a layer of 1-2 inches (2.5 - 5 cm) to the terrarium. The living bacteria will activate when the substrate comes into contact with water or waste. Organic matter such as food scraps and animal waste will decompose over time. The absorbent properties of the volcanic ash will eliminate odors by trapping decomposing materials. Rinse the Sub Stratum and partially replace it every 12 months. Drainage Layer Add a top layer of biological substrate to the Sub Stratum layer of Exo Terra for optimal bioactivity and drainage. Plants can be anchored in the top layer (for example, Exo Terra planting soil) while their roots thrive in the Sub Stratum layer - resulting in optimal growth. Additionally, an inorganic layer can be added first for even better drainage (BioDrain by Exo Terra) to allow excess water to drain through the substrate to avoid saturation and prevent anaerobic bacteria from outnumbering the beneficial bacteria in the Sub Stratum. Use the BioDrain Mesh to separate the BioDrain layer from the organic matter to penetrate the underlying layer. Use a top layer of leaf litter to provide dry areas, shelter, and living surfaces for all organisms in the terrarium. In the meantime, this will prevent evaporation from the underlying layers. Mixed The secret to growing healthy plants starts with the soil. Naturally, healthy soil contains living microorganisms - from bacteria to fungi, protozoa, and arthropods. Together, they form a choreographed exchange of nutrient recycling and decomposition of organic materials. By mixing the Sub Stratum with other organic substrates, you enrich any substrate with necessary minerals like calcium, nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. This also helps with water retention and provides adequate air supply to the roots. Use only treated tap water with Aquatize (PT1979) in bioactive planted terrariums to eliminate heavy metals, chlorine, and chloramines. Regular use of Turtle Clean (PT1998 or PT1999) to add additional beneficial organisms to the terrarium water will support biological filtration capabilities. Ingredients: Natural Volcanic Soil (Andisol), Activated Charcoal, Live Beneficial Bacteria (Bacillus) "Nothing is lost, everything is transformed" - Antoine de Lavoisier Made in Japan PT3183 - Sub Stratum - Bioactive Volcanic Substrate - 2 kg / 4.4 lb PT3184 - Sub Stratum - Bioactive Volcanic Substrate - 4 kg / 8.8 lb Also available: PT3115 - Bio Drain Substrate - Drainage Substrate for Terrarium - a natural, inorganic substrate that allows excellent drainage of the terrarium. PT3132 - Bio Drain Mesh Small - Non-toxic mesh to keep the underlying drainage substrate separate from the decorative substrate of the terrarium's top layer PT1979 - Aquatize - Water Conditioner for Terrarium - Makes tap water safe, for healthier terrarium water conditions PT1998 - Turtle Clean - Biological Cleaner for Turtle Habitat - Establishes beneficial biological flora to ensure significant decomposition of organic waste CONTENT 4 kg - 8.8 lb
| Brand | Exo Terra |
| Supplier reference | 33/PT3184 |
| Color | black |
| Color | Black |