Drainage Layer Substrates
Top quality drainage substrates for bioactive vivariums
About Bioactive Terrarium Drainage Layers
(An excerpt from Vivarium Construction 101)
The drainage layer catches any water that flows through the substrate, keeps the substrate layer from becoming saturated, helps to sustain a healthy microfauna population, and keeps humidity stable within the enclosure. This allows for the healthy, "airy" substrate layer necessary for long-term vivarium success. This layer should ideally have a depth of 2.5-3 inches, but this can vary slightly relative to the size of the enclosure used. Rinse whichever media you choose thoroughly to remove dust before using it, and don't add water to your drainage layer until the vivarium is completed. Pouring water over the plants, through the substrate layer will ensure the drainage media below won't shift, and it'll add beneficial tannins from the leaf litter & soil to the drainage layer below. Water should rise about 1/4-1/2 way up the drainage layer, and should never be allowed to raise into contact with the substrate layer. Also, try not to let it dry out completely, since that will negatively impact the relative humidity within the enclosure.
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NEHERP LDL: Lightweight Drainage Layer Substrate
Our lightest and least expensive drainage layer media
NEHERP LDL Is Only: $1.97/Liter | $1.90/Quart
Only $6.49/Gallon in our Substrate Base Kits!
* Weights/Volumes May Vary +/-5%