{"product_id":"et-stone-desert-substrate-red-5kg-pt3135","title":"Exo Terra Stone Desert Substrate RED 5kg (PT3135) | Vivarium Sand Mix","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe ET Stone Desert Substrate in Red is a naturalistic arid vivarium substrate designed to replicate the complex soils found in desert and savannah environments. Unlike plain sand, real desert soils are a blend of sand, decomposed granite and clay — and this substrate reflects that, giving keepers the material to build a genuinely functional and visually authentic landscape in red tones. Free from added dyes or chemicals, it works with the animal rather than against it.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eWhat It's Made From\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is not a single-component sand. The mix combines sand, decomposed granite and clay to produce a substrate that behaves like natural arid terrain. The result is a surface that holds its form when shaped and retains structural integrity once dry — outcrops, burrows and tunnel systems won't collapse after construction.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eBuilding a Functional Landscape\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe substrate's workable consistency allows you to sculpt elevated basking areas and cool, lower-lying burrow zones within the same enclosure. This matters for thermoregulation: reptiles can self-regulate by moving between warmer elevated spots and cooler, slightly humid underground retreats. Animals that burrow can also absorb moisture through their skin while sheltering — a detail that's easy to overlook but physiologically important for many arid species.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo added dyes or chemicals — natural colouration only\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSand, decomposed granite and clay composition mimics true desert soil\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHolds shape once dry — suitable for sculpting burrows, tunnels and rock formations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStimulates natural digging and burrowing behaviour\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCool-humid burrow zones support skin-based moisture absorption\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent heat conductor — supports basking area temperature gradients\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5kg pack\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor keepers who want a substrate that does more than line the floor of a vivarium, the ET Stone Desert Substrate Red gives you the tools to create an environment that actively supports your reptile's natural behaviour and thermoregulatory needs.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Peregrine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54148483514705,"sku":"SHD205","price":7.49,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0963\/0403\/8225\/files\/SHD205_1.jpg?v=1782599394","url":"https:\/\/viperia.co.uk\/products\/et-stone-desert-substrate-red-5kg-pt3135","provider":"Viperia UK","version":"1.0","type":"link"}