Perlite is a proven substrate for incubating reptile eggs. It is characterized by its low weight, high water retention capacity, and excellent air permeability. This creates a stable incubation environment with consistent humidity – a crucial factor for successful egg development.
Perlite is a glassy, volcanic natural rock containing up to 2% bound water. Brief heating to approximately 800–1000 °C causes this water to expand, increasing the material's volume to 15–20 times its original size. The result is a sterile, pH-neutral, and structurally stable substrate, ideally suited for incubation.
Perlite can be used pure or mixed (e.g. with vermiculite) and is suitable for numerous reptile species.