Shanjing substrate

[louise]

I am in the process of setting up a new viv for my new pair of shanjings, which should arrive on Tuesday. Is it OK to use compost from my garden compost bins, as there are no chemicals in them, and there should be plenty of worms?

 

[andy]

I personally wouldn't use the compost....too rich and with all sorts of junk in it. I use john innes no3 potting compost for mine and find it works well. Also, i doubt the Shanjing will eat the worms from your compost bin as most newts/sals find dendrobaen worms (the red compost type) distasteful. A much prefered type is Lumbricus Terrestris, or your normal lobworm.
Also, cork hides would be appreciated as they'll feel more relaxed and will settle sooner if they can choose to hide out.