Substrate....

[Kevin McRae]

I might change my substrate but I am not sure what exactly to use.

I was thinking gravel mixed with sand.

What do you think?

You guys say that they live on gravely outcrops.

[HeatherRose]

You'll probably get some negative reactions to the sand, as is the trend these days...if it works for you though, I can't complain :D

Are you trying to go for a more natural substrate? If so, I think I heard slate was a good option...

Paper towels and newspaper are among my favourites though ;) Easier to clean and keep pretty :p

Good luck!

[Samba]

I use 'Lizard Litter' personally. It's said to be ok to digest, absorbant, resists mold, and retains humidity. I have used it for years, and find my geckos seem happier on it than paper towels (which I used before and are equally good as a substrate). =)

[Tim and Julie B]

"Rocky outcroppings" to be precise:D Your best bet to simulate this environment would be to use stone or ceramic tiles. Using sand and gravel greatly increases the risk of impaction, and you definately do not want to risk that. By using "stone" looking tiles your tank remains natural, is very easy to clean, cheap($0.40-$1.45 each usually) because the tiles will last a lifetime and when using a UTH or heat lamp they absorb and emit the heat much more evenly which is a huge bonus to the reptiles. Hope this helps!

Julie

[tdherper]

I lined the bottom of my leo tank with ceramic floor tiles I got at HD. Make sure they are not the glossy type. With the UTH and a room temp of 72, the two 12 inch tiles that contact the UTH show a range of surface temp btw 88-94 degrees. Very easy to clean and looks attractive.

td

[herpslave]

I don't know why you are trying to make the leos environment to the one wild leos live in. I am predicting your leo is not wild caught. Why would you worry about making your tank like there environment? They live in a cage(unlike there environment. Gravel and sand is dangerous as your sand you use now... You could have trouble feeding crickets too as they would hide in the gravel or rocky openings. Why don't you just use something very safe and nice for your leos. Instead of just having a nice looking tank. For example a non loose substrate.