Diatomaceous earth

I used to use this for my mammals, does any one know of, or use it them selves for their herps?

Thanks, in adavce!

Is that stuff a pesticide? It is indigestible. I wouldn't use it.

bitterbeauty said:

Is that stuff a pesticide? It is indigestible. I wouldn't use it.

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From Wikipedia:


Diatomaceous earth, also known as DE, TSS, diatomite, diahydro, kieselguhr, kieselgur and celite) is a naturally occurring, soft, chalk-like sedimentary rock that is easily crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. This powder has an abrasive feel, similar to pumice powder, and is very light, due to its high porosity. The typical chemical composition of diatomaceous earth is 86% silica, 5% sodium, 3% magnesium and 2% iron.

Diatomaceous earth consists of fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of hard-shelled algae. It is used as a filtration aid, as a mild abrasive, as a mechanical insecticide, as an absorbent for liquids, as cat litter, as an activator in blood clotting studies, and as a component of dynamite. As it is also heat-resistant, it can be used as a thermal insulator.

It's not toxic per se, but it is bad news for your lungs. It would likely be even worse for herps.

As a substrate? No. I wouldn't even advise using it for mammals if there is going to be prolonged contact (DE is a dessicant and an irritant - just handling the stuff can leave you with dry, itchy skin for a few days - it's those properties that make it an effective non-chemical insecticide).

It's great for keeping bugs out of the house/garden and safer for your pets than most chemical pesticides, but not something you'd want your leo walking around on all day.