Need advice. (substrate)

[Augustus1508]

Would anyone be able to link me the best substrate to use for my tort?
I have bark chips currently but need something doe the underneath and want to know best recommendations.

Also I've started a job now and want to know what cameras I can use to keep an eye on my tort whilst im not here so I can be reassured he's fine.

And lastly could someone recommend the best bulbs to use for heat and uv? Im due to upgrade them soon and want him to have the best

Thanks

 

[The_Four_Toed_Edward]

Maybe @Littleredfootbigredheart can help you with some UK specific advice?

 

[Littleredfootbigredheart]

Maybe @Littleredfootbigredheart can help you with some UK specific advice?

Hello! Absolutely

We personally use this orchid bark, it’s the listing we found with the best value for money

Swell Premium Orchid Bark Fine

Fine, woody substrate that is perfect for any rainforest setups Retains moisture and can be used to raise humidity Great for forest dwelling species and amphibians

www.reptiles.swelluk.com

If wanting to use a damp coco coir base, this one is a good brand

Amazon.com : Coco

In terms of lighting, the most recommended up to date indoor uv option is t5 tube fluorescent bulbs, they disperse the uv light over a much wider area. Recommended brands are Arcadia proT5 kit 12% or zoo med reptisun t5 10.0(hood usually sold separate) personally id go for the Arcadia.
Then for a basking bulb you want a flood bulb like this

For visuals on everything you need, check the links in response #4 of your previous thread

Need advice on set up and tortoise

Hello! Finally gotten round to figuring out how to post threads etc. I have a recently turned 1 year old Greek tortoise (spur thighed), and I just want to make sure every little thing is ok for him! Im going to post pictures of the calcium etc I use, as well as the food I give him and his full...

tortoiseforum.org

Hope this helps!

 

[Alex and the Redfoot]

It worth mentioning that Arcadia ProT5 Desert kit should be placed at the distance about 20" over substrate

Also, there are Reptile Systems EcoT5 kits available in UK: they are decent but lifespan of a tube is shorter than of Arcadia lamps. New ExoTerra T5 kits are also a viable option but harder to find yet.

Alternative to Arcadia basking lamps are ProRep *Flood* Spot bulbs and ExoTerra Daylight Basking Spot bulbs (not Intense Basking Spot, which is not bad but should be used correctly).

 

[GraceHerc]

Hi, new to forums so hope this isn't too old. Can I also add that I would advise you invest in a dimmable digital thermostat, and timer. You can buy them on swell. Twin plug for heat and light. You will need it for heat so the bulb will dim on and off at the correct temperature. Those bulbs give off a lot of heat so control is a must.