· substrate · 11 min read
Best Millipede Substrate: Top Picks For A Healthy Habitat
Discover the best millipede substrates to provide a thriving environment for your invertebrates. Read expert reviews and find the perfect substrate for your millipede's needs.
Millipedes, fascinating creatures belonging to the Diplopoda class, require a specific substrate to thrive in captivity. Choosing the best millipede substrate is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being. In this article, we will review the top millipede substrates available, highlighting their unique features and benefits.
Overview
PROS
- Enriched with calcium for strong exoskeletons and healthy growth
- Natural and organic materials mimic their natural habitat, promoting well-being
CONS
- May require occasional misting to maintain moisture levels
- Some users have reported mold growth if not properly aerated
Josh's Frogs Milli Mix is an exceptional millipede substrate that provides a calcium-rich environment for your beloved millipedes and isopods. The blend of natural and organic materials, including cypress mulch, sphagnum moss, and cuttlebone, emulates their natural habitat and promotes optimal well-being. The added calcium is particularly beneficial for healthy exoskeleton development and overall growth.
While the substrate is generally low-maintenance, it does require occasional misting to maintain the desired moisture levels. Additionally, some users have reported instances of mold growth if proper aeration is not provided. However, these minor considerations should not detract from the overall effectiveness of this top-notch substrate.
PROS
- Provides a calcium-rich environment for healthy growth and development
- Encourages natural burrowing and nesting behaviors
- Helps to retain moisture and regulate humidity levels
- Prevents mold and mildew growth
CONS
- Substrate particles can cling to insects and their exoskeletons
- This substrate tends to be more expensive
The Deluxe Isopod and Millipede Substrate with Calcium is the perfect substrate for your millipedes and isopods. It provides a calcium-rich environment for healthy growth and development, and it encourages natural burrowing and nesting behaviors. The substrate helps to retain moisture and regulate humidity levels, preventing mold and mildew growth. It's great because it is made from organic materials including coconut fiber, wood chips, and calcium carbonate. This replicates the natural environment that these critters would experience in the wild, resulting in optimal growth and well-being.
One potential downside of this substrate is that the particles can cling to insects and their exoskeletons. This can be unsightly, and it can also make it difficult for the insects to move around. Additionally, this substrate can be more expensive than other types of substrates. However, the benefits of this substrate outweigh the drawbacks, making it a great choice for millipede and isopod owners.
PROS
- Blend of coconut husks, moss, peat, and clay mimics natural millipede habitat
- Encourages natural burrowing, tunneling, and hiding behaviors
CONS
- May require additional moisture for optimal humidity
- Can be prone to dust buildup
Zilla's Jungle Mix Substrate Bedding seamlessly recreates the organic beddings of a millipede's natural jungle habitat. Comprising coconut husks, moss, peat, and clay, the substrate provides an ideal foundation for burrowing, tunneling, and hiding activities essential to these terrestrial invertebrates. By emulating the moist, decaying leaves on a rainforest floor, the Jungle Mix Substrate fosters optimal environmental conditions for millipede well-being.
One notable advantage of this substrate is its ability to retain moisture, crucial for maintaining appropriate humidity levels. This characteristic helps facilitate crucial molting processes and prevents respiratory issues in millipedes. Besides the excellent overall moisture retention, the substrate can be adjusted to attain desired humidity levels by adding or reducing water content as needed. Furthermore, the substrate's component materials contribute to odor control, ensuring a fresher and less odorous habitat for your millipedes.
PROS
- Provides a natural and safe environment for millipedes
- Encourages natural burrowing and digging behaviors
- Helps to maintain proper humidity levels
CONS
- Can be messy if not cleaned regularly
- May not be suitable for all species of millipedes
Zoo Med Reptisoil Millipede Substrate is a specially formulated substrate that provides a natural and safe environment for millipedes. It is made from a blend of coconut fiber, cypress mulch, and sphagnum moss, which provides the perfect balance of moisture and aeration. This substrate encourages natural burrowing and digging behaviors, which is essential for millipede health. It also helps to maintain proper humidity levels, which is important for preventing dehydration. Overall, Zoo Med Reptisoil Millipede Substrate is an excellent choice for any millipede owner.
In addition to its many benefits, Zoo Med Reptisoil Millipede Substrate is also very easy to use. Simply spread it evenly over the bottom of your millipede's enclosure. You can add water to the substrate to increase humidity if necessary. Be sure to clean the substrate regularly to prevent the buildup of waste and debris.
PROS
- Provides the ideal environment for millipedes to thrive, with a balanced composition of organic matter, calcium, and other essential nutrients
- Promotes natural burrowing and nesting behaviors, mimicking the millipedes' natural habitat
- Supports healthy growth and development, ensuring optimal molting and vitality
CONS
- May require occasional replenishment to maintain optimal substrate conditions
- May not be suitable for all millipede species, it's always best to research the specific needs of your millipedes before using any substrate
For optimal millipede care, a suitable substrate is paramount, providing a nurturing environment that caters to their burrowing and nesting instincts. Our meticulously crafted Isopod and Millipede Substrate (Quart) is an ecologically complete solution, ensuring the well-being of your cherished millipede colony.
This carefully formulated substrate replicates the millipedes' natural habitat, featuring a harmonious blend of organic matter, calcium, and other vital nutrients. With this substrate, your millipedes can immerse themselves in their natural behaviors, burrowing and nesting with ease. Moreover, it facilitates their molting process, promoting healthy growth and vitality. With its nutrient-rich composition, this substrate serves as a haven where your millipedes can thrive.
PROS
- Organic and bioactive formula designed specifically for millipede habitats, providing an optimal environment for their health and well-being.
- Nutrient-rich substrate supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms, creating a natural ecosystem within the terrarium.
CONS
- Available in limited quantities, so stock up when you can.
- May require periodic moisture adjustment to maintain proper humidity levels.
The Bio Dude's Terra Aranea substrate is a game-changer for millipede enthusiasts. This organic and bioactive mix provides the perfect foundation for a thriving millipede habitat. The nutrient-rich formula supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms, creating a natural ecosystem that mimics their native environment. With Terra Aranea, you can provide your millipedes with the optimal conditions for health, well-being, and natural behaviors.
One of the key benefits of Terra Aranea is its bioactive nature. It contains a blend of organic materials, including coco coir, sphagnum moss, and worm castings. These components work together to create a self-sustaining ecosystem that supports a variety of beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms break down organic matter, recycle nutrients, and help to control odor. As a result, Terra Aranea provides a healthier and more natural environment for your millipedes, promoting their overall well-being.
PROS
- Enriched with ABG substrate to mimic natural millipede habitat
- Supports a bioactive ecosystem, fostering beneficial microflora and microfauna
- Facilitates efficient drainage and aeration, preventing waterlogging
CONS
- May require additional blending for optimal consistency
- Can be prone to dust and humidity retention
Josh's Frogs ABG Mix stands out as an exceptional substrate for millipede enthusiasts. Its carefully formulated blend harnesses ABG substrate's unique properties, replicating the natural environment millipedes thrive in. The result is an ecosystem pulsating with beneficial microflora and microfauna, offering an unparalleled habitat for your millipede companions.
Beyond its ecological prowess, ABG Mix boasts practical advantages. Its adept drainage and aeration qualities effectively combat waterlogging, a common pitfall for millipede substrates. This meticulous design ensures a healthy and breathable environment for your millipedes, maximizing their well-being. However, it's worth noting that some may find the substrate's consistency could benefit from further blending, and its propensity for dust and humidity retention requires careful monitoring.
PROS
- Specialized blend optimized for millipedes' unique burrowing and moisture needs.
- Natural components promote a healthy and stimulating environment.
- Encourages natural behaviors, fostering well-being.
CONS
- May not be suitable for use with other isopod species.
- Volume may be insufficient for larger enclosures.
Indulge your millipedes in the ultimate substrate haven with Josh's Frogs Isopod Substrate. This meticulously crafted blend caters specifically to the burrowing and moisture preferences of these fascinating creatures. Its natural components mirror their native environment, providing a stimulating and enriching habitat.
Josh's Frogs Isopod Substrate fosters natural behaviors, promoting your millipedes' well-being. Witness their joyful burrowing escapades and observe their thriving as they explore the diverse textures and microcosms within the substrate. Its composition encourages natural behaviors, contributing to a fulfilling and healthy life for your exotic pets.
PROS
- Amplifies calcium content in millipede's habitat, ensuring optimal health and mobility
- Promotes lush terrarium greenery with its calcium-infused composition
CONS
- Requires specific humidity levels to maintain efficacy
- May not be suitable for all millipede species
If you're seeking to establish a thriving millipede haven, The Bio Dude Soil Cal Plus is an indispensable bioactive substrate calcium additive. It's meticulously formulated to augment the calcium levels within your millipede's environment, fulfilling their physiological requirement for robust health and graceful movement.
Its calcium-enriched composition doesn't just benefit your millipedes; it also nurtures the terrarium's flora. The Bio Dude Soil Cal Plus empowers you to cultivate a flourishing environment where your millipedes can thrive and your plants can flourish. Just remember: maintaining the appropriate humidity levels is paramount to harness the full potential of this substrate, and it may not be the perfect fit for every millipede species out there.
PROS
- Specially formulated soil blend mimics natural millipede habitats, promoting optimal health
- High organic content provides essential nutrients for growth and well-being
CONS
- May require additional moisture for some millipede species
- Potentially dusty during handling
The Exo Terra Plantation Soil is an excellent choice for millipede enthusiasts seeking to provide their cherished pets with an enriched and natural-like living environment. This specially designed substrate perfectly replicates the soil conditions found in millipede habitats, ensuring their overall well-being.
Composed of a rich blend of organic matter, the Exo Terra Plantation Soil offers a vital source of nutrients essential for the growth and development of millipedes. Its porous structure promotes optimal drainage, preventing waterlogging and ensuring a healthy and aerated environment. Moreover, the soil's high organic content encourages the growth of beneficial microorganisms, further contributing to the millipede's well-being.
Providing the right substrate for your millipede is essential. Consider factors such as moisture retention, drainage, and the presence of calcium and other nutrients. Our top picks include Josh's Frogs Milli Mix, Deluxe Isopod and Millipede Substrate, and The Bio Dude Terra Aranea. Explore the reviews and make an informed decision based on your millipede's specific requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best substrate for millipedes?
The ideal millipede substrate provides adequate moisture retention, drainage, and contains calcium and other essential nutrients.
What are some of the top-rated millipede substrates?
Highly-rated millipede substrates include Josh's Frogs Milli Mix, Deluxe Isopod and Millipede Substrate, and The Bio Dude Terra Aranea.
How often should I change my millipede's substrate?
Substrate changes depend on the type of substrate used and the number of millipedes in the enclosure. Generally, aim to replace the substrate every 3-6 months.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a millipede substrate?
Moisture retention, drainage, calcium content, and the presence of beneficial microorganisms are crucial factors to consider when selecting a millipede substrate.
Are there any harmful substrates I should avoid using for millipedes?
Avoid substrates like sand or gravel, as they can damage millipedes' delicate exoskeletons. Additionally, substrates containing chemicals or pesticides should be avoided.