T-Rex Forest Bed substrate

[Andrew Ferguson]

Anyone familiar of the T-Rex Forest substrate?

http://www.t-rexproducts.com/products/substrate/forest-bed/

I've got some in preperation of my forthcoming setup. But I know have a feeling it won't be suitable for a G.rosea or B.smithi.

Any help from the experts? I've tried searching the forum but T Rex and Bed are all too short to search.

[Phil Rea]

I'm no expert, but it looks to me like coconut coir, in which case it's fine

[Andrew Ferguson]

Thanks for the prompt reply Phil. Just one more question if I may, is coconut coir fine on its own or is a mixture with some other substrate a better idea?

[Peter Roach]

Another name is eco-earth, and you can get it cheaper if it hasnt got the T-rex name on it. I get mine for £2.00 per brick

When you hydrate it, squeeze out as much water as possible and then lay it out on a sheet of newspaper overnight to dry out. I would suggest a layer no thicker than 1/2in.

When I do my substrate I squeeze out as much water as possible and then add approx 25-30% vermiculite by volumne (fine grade for slings and large grade for adults) and then add a few handfuls of fine wood bark. I find that by adding the dry vermiculite it absorbs the excess and unwanted moisture from the eco-earth, making the substrate mix just slightly damp and the wood bark helps the substrate stay stable when the spiders burrow.

[Phil Rea]

I use it for some of my spiders without anything else. If it dries out completely though, it can be difficult to get it to re-absorb water.

As Peter has said, you can certainly mix it with vermiculite. Never tried wood bark myself.

[jason holland]

yep i use the one thats in the barrel shape. it works fine and no probs. definatley squeeze as much water out tho for a smithi. it does soak up alot of water