Flake Soil Questions

[aspenentomology]

I just bought the ingredients today to make flake soil using Ratmosphere's recipe. I'm still a little confused on its use, though. Can it work as the sole substrate for rhinos/stags (not that I plan to use it like that) or is it merely meant as a base along with other things like wood and leaves? Also, would a small amount be helpful in flower beetle substrate as well, or would that be a waste?

 

[JKim]

I don't know what method he used, but a general way of producing substrate isn't that difficult and can be used for any general scarabs or lucanids. If you are keeping a certain species, requiring a particular set up, then yea, you sure have to have some more additives. But as far as what I have done so far, for 10+ years, NOPE. NOT AT ALL.

 

[Tylt33]

I use it as the sole soil for the five species of beetle that I raise and have had no issues whatsoever. Don't overthink it!

 

[Ratmosphere]

Sole soil, even though various decay stages are wanted for different kinds of species to get maximum size for males. But that's pretty far advanced, my turotials are a basic guide. The basic substrate I teach will work for any species varying results with male size.