<< Jon, is the pumice you describe more similar to perlite or to the
calcined
clay ceramic?>>
Intermediate between these two. The pumice I use cannot have Zinc
sulphate, as I am unaware of natural pumice containing this compound.
Furthermore, the very usage of "Pumice powder" violates the exact problem
(in my estimation) that the pumice STONE avoids.... the tendency for
virtually all gecko newborns to lick their substrates, shed their skins
(and perhaps in the process of ingesting their shed skins also consume Zinc
sulphate powder???), and to generally avoid other fine-grade mediums. The
usage of powder, sticking to anything moist like a newborn gecko, would no
doubt clog up the shedding process - or perhaps the animal itself. In my
experience of breeding a variety of gecko species, the tendency has been
for me to be more inclined towards larger, more porous, items. I've seen a
number of newborn geckos ingest small particles upon hatching, and this is
definitely something I strive to avoid.
To explain further about the pumice that I have used, it is certainly
denser than perlite. The pumice I use also has no odor whatsoever. The
particles are about 3-4mm and grayish-white in color. Upon receiving a
batch, I wash it thoroughly and have never had problems only successes that
exceed any other experience with FINE GRADE type mediums: vermiculite,
sand, and various soils, powder - never crazy enough to try this....but
then again.... In all fairness and open-mindedness to Jerry, I would be
interested to read about his experience/success with the "pumice powder".
How many species have responded positively towards this regimen, and for
how long? Gekkoninae, Diplodactylinae, Teratoscincinae, Eublepharinae? Or
all sub-families? Have you found it to work sufficiently superior to what
other mediums. And what were the species that were bred? Have your
experienced any problems/set-backs (full-term embyonic death, hatchlings
with nervous system problems)?
Jon
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