Can I use this as substrate?

[Hoppity100]

I tried to write last night, but my message would not go thru. Do you have a shepherd type dog? If so, we have alot in common. I wrote to say don't eat stuff you were describing at Lowe's, if you are in that much doubt, either test it in water or taste it. Gee, this stuff might be bad, too acidic, have additives or chemicals. I see your problem: eco earth is expensive for your needs. And, I never ate dirt as a kid, instead wanted sweets. I would caution you even though some use this and most say don't. I just got up, did not sleep well. I am starting my day and would be happy to write back if you have more questions. Oh, forgot to ask how much of your tank is water? And is water in separate container?

[Hoppity100]

I'm glad someone else wrote about substrate in question. I offered help like you did, and hope to hear back about using this stuff. I tried to caution against it. There is controversy about moss type substrates.

[Hoppity100]

A mix is better than full strength. Others have used it with no problem. Others say not to. If its safe, maybe how it is used is what is important?

[Hoppity100]

I see what you are saying, I am thinking of the frog. You never know when they ingest anything they shouldn't. I don't like risking stuff with pets. But that's just me. If in doubt, I don't do it. Tree frogs are just as cool as other types of frogs. My town has chain pet stores: all 3 have different merchandise, only 2 have frogs, I got eco earth from pet supplies plus (2 blocks $7) and went there because they are close to my house.

[deranged chipmunk]

I forgot to mention in my post that while i use it in my enclosures, that i would not use it as my primary substrate for no other reason of peat being naturally loaded with fungii spores. In a high humidity environment, fungii could develop. Some could be beneficial fungii, but some could be detrimental to the frog. Of course it should go without saying that you will never know what spores tagged along during the drying out/milling process. As far as additives and dyes and such, it is NOT preserved moss, so there's no worries there.

[ejh805]

Thank you everyone for chiming in.
Since I have ground dwelling frogs, I think it may be too much of a risk.

[Pluke]

I think you're making the right choice, better safe than sorry IMO. The extra cost of the eco earth is for piece of mind and safety. Do you live anywhere near Birmingham? They have a monthly reptile expo, you could probably find eco earth there. I buy a 3 brick pack at my expo in michigan for like $5 dollars. Just something to look into.

[Pluke]

Bed A Beast

That is the booth I buy my eco earth from. It's $9.99 for shipping.. buy yourself a couple 3 packs at once to save yourself some cash in the long run.

(Make sure if you do choose to buy from there to click the 3 pack button, haha.)

[ejh805]

I live like a 4 hour drive away from Birmingham.
Have been contemplating making the trip, but the cost of gas (unless I could find people to come with and split the cost) would probably leave me pretty broke haha
I'll have to try out that website.

[deranged chipmunk]

Thank you everyone for chiming in.
Since I have ground dwelling frogs, I think it may be too much of a risk.

Good call

[Hoppity100]

I'm glad you decided another way. I just didn't want to see anything happen and I know eco earth would be expensive for your tank, what substrate do you think you might use? I just finished setting up new aquarium, took 3 hours. Did you get my message about if you have a german shepherd? Thanks

[Hoppity100]

There you go, fungi. Oh gosh, that can be nasty. I just set up a whole new tank for FB's because they're getting 2 new FB mates next week. Gees, it took me 3 hours! I made a screen lid myself, did not feel like going to petco. But, I am glad I got it done! It has pebbles, more smooth oval rocks, more plants, driftwood, a treehouse, a small terra cotta pot for hiding, a submersible heater, oh and the land area is larger. I'm going to look at it tonight to relax.

[HerpDerp]

I just noticed this thread! If I can't find something for a decent price at a store I usually will use Amazon.com or Ebay. I found this after a quick search: Amazon.com: ECO EARTH BRICK 3/PK: Pet Supplies

With the shipping it's not too bad. Usually I find some good prices like that though. I got a ceramic heat emitter for $15 on ebay! That's less than half the regular price. Some creative internet searching can really yield some good results.

[deranged chipmunk]

this is literally the cheapest i have ever seen eco earth. 3 bricks for $3.68. for the price of gas to birmingham, you could order a years supply from these guys,....lol Eco Earth - 3 Brick Value Pack | ThatPetPlace.com