Is Cedar or pine shavings a Safe Substrate for Mourning Geckos?
Aromatic oils are toxic to reptiles, and the material holds moisture poorly for a humidity-dependent species while promoting mould.
See the full substrates guide, or browse all 299 info pages.
Yes. Coconut fibre (eco earth) + sphagnum moss topper is a safe substrate for mourning geckos. The standard for a humid bioactive mourning gecko setup.
Yes. Paper towel is a safe substrate for mourning geckos. Best for hatchlings, quarantine, or a simple non-bioactive setup.
Yes. Sphagnum moss (as primary layer) is a safe substrate for mourning geckos. Excellent moisture retention for a humidity-dependent tropical species.
Use caution — Reptile carpet is rated "caution" as a mourning gecko substrate. Retains less humidity than coco fibre and can harbour bacteria if not washed frequently.
Use caution — Loose substrate for hatchlings kept on live insects is rated "caution" as a mourning gecko substrate. A hatchling hunting fruit flies on loose substrate can occasionally ingest particles along with prey.
No — Sand is rated "avoid" as a mourning gecko substrate. Not suited to this species at all — wrong humidity profile for a substrate that needs to stay damp, and carries an impaction risk if ingested with prey.