There are several differences in internal anatomy, tooth patterns/counts, etc. but the quickest way to differentiate is by cloacal denticulations. I'll try to dig up the reference for you and maybe try to draw a picture for you. It's easy to differentiate them.
There's probably no significant difference in care since they essentially occupy the same niche (only in different geographical regions), but then again, no one I know has ever had confirmed compressicauda so it's only guessing.
I use sand or fine gravel substrate for my animals, but it's not necessary. They seem to settle down though if you give them some sort of cave/hide to coil in/around. I've had some individuals in the past that would bury themseleves completely at all times.
(Message edited by nate on August 05, 2005)