This review explores Arcadia Earth Mix Arid, a substrate specifically designed for arid-dwelling reptiles like leopard geckos. Unlike many substrates, Arcadia Earth Mix Arid aims to replicate the natural environment, providing more than just a bedding material. It's formulated with a blend of earth mix and volcanic rock, offering potential nutritional benefits often overlooked in captive reptile husbandry. This unique composition promises a bioactive setup that promotes the gecko's well-being, mimicking the natural ingestion of minerals and trace elements crucial for their health.This review details the practical experience of using Arcadia Earth Mix Arid with leopard geckos, highlighting both advantages and potential drawbacks. We'll examine its impact on a gecko's behavior, the ease of maintenance, and the long-term cost-effectiveness of this premium substrate. We'll also address concerns regarding potential hazards associated with the volcanic rock components and discuss the overall suitability of this substrate for creating a thriving and enriching environment for your leopard gecko.
Pros And Cons
- Suitable for leopard geckos and other arid region reptiles.
- Supports plant growth and custodians.
- Provides a suitable floor space for pets.
- Did not cause condensation on the tank walls.
- 110-liter bag provides plenty of substrate.
- Gecko settled in quickly and comfortably.
- Safe and did not cause impaction (theoretically).
- Pricey (around 10 pounds).
- Difficult to water; water sits on top instead of soaking through.
- Contains small, potentially sharp volcanic rock pieces (safety concern).
- New product, long-term effects unknown.
Read more: 5 Best Terrarium Beddings for Bearded Dragons
Why Supplement Leopard Gecko Diets?
Leopard geckos in the wild obtain essential nutrients not just from their prey but also from the substrate they ingest incidentally.
This natural ingestion of minerals and trace elements is crucial for their overall health and well-being.
In captivity, we replicate this by supplementing their food with vitamins and minerals, but a suitable substrate further enhances their nutritional intake.
Arcadia Earth Mix Arid: Composition and Theory
Arcadia Earth Mix Arid is a blend of 70% earth mix and 30% certified organic Scottish volcanic rock.
Volcanic rock is rich in micro and macronutrients, acting as a natural supplement.
The all-natural composition aims to prevent impaction, a common problem with inappropriate substrates, provided other husbandry aspects are correct (heating and hydration).
Personal Experience with Arcadia Earth Mix Arid
The reviewer has used Arcadia Earth Mix for crested geckos and a tokay gecko for years with positive results, including healthy plant growth.
A leopard gecko, Ziggy, settled quickly into a new enclosure using this substrate, showing no signs of stress or abnormal behavior.
The substrate did not cause condensation and provided ample volume even for a large enclosure. The reviewer also appreciates the fact that the substrate supports plant and custodian growth
Cons and Considerations
The relatively high price may be a deterrent for some, though it’s a one-time investment for a long-lasting bioactive setup.
Watering requires misting rather than direct pouring due to the substrate’s drainage characteristics.
The presence of sharp volcanic rock fragments raises a slight concern regarding potential ingestion and injury to the gecko, although the reviewer has yet to observe any issues, and the volcanic rock is deemed safe by Arcadia.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Overall, Arcadia Earth Mix Arid appears to be a safe and beneficial substrate for leopard geckos.
While the price and watering method are minor drawbacks, the potential benefits of natural supplementation and bioactive setup outweigh these.
The long-term cost-effectiveness and the gecko’s positive response make it a worthwhile option, though long-term effects will need monitoring as it's a new product.