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.
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
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.
Only use tap water treated with Aquatize (PT1979) in
bioactive planted terrariums to remove heavy metals, chlorine, and chloramines.
The regular use of Turtle Clean (PT1998 or PT1999) to add
extra beneficial organisms to the terrarium water will support the biological
filtration capabilities.
Ingredients: Natural Volcanic Soil (Andisol), Active Carbon,
Live beneficial bacteria (Bacillus)
"Nothing is lost, everything is transformed" -
Antoine de Lavoisier
Product information:
·
Natural bioactive soil
·
With live beneficial bacteria
·
Keeps the terrarium clean & healthy
·
Eliminates ammonia & odours
·
Great drainage capabilities
·
Ideal for bioactive planted terrariums
·
Made in Japan
BioActive Volcanic Substrate - Select Size - Frogs & Co
- Brand: Exo Terra
- Product Code: SHS001
- Availability: In Stock
-
£12.99
- Ex Tax: £10.83
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Tags: BioActive Volcanic Substrate - Select Size - Frogs & Co, SHS001, Humid Substrates