BDFB setup advice
Kinda long post since I want to be thorough with questions and such ππ»
I was in pet Supplies Plus today and saw that they had at least 2 BDFB's for sale. I've been thinking of getting some for a while now so I'm going to go back to buy them tomorrow or the day after if they are still there! however I need some advice on how to set up a tank for them in the meantime
I have an empty lidless 10 gallon ready to go, so it should definitely be big enough for 2
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Should use some of my remaining zoo med reptisoil I used for my isopods as a thin base layer before putting in sand? I only have enough to cover the whole tank in about a half an inch, but I can get some more if need be
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What specific sand should I buy, and how much? I was doing research earlier and have seen that fine sand (?)/play sand isn't suitable, and I should go for bigger granules because it's easier for them to walk on... Links are appreciated!
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My room is warm even though it's winter here in PA (my room is in the attic so it's naturally warmer) so should I still get a heat lamp for them? And what about a normal lighting? It's not possible for me to put them in direct sunlight since I have a radiator right in front of the only windows in my room
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I have heard varying sources say that giving them liquid water is good and I should use an ant waterer or water gel crystals, while others say that they don't need a direct water source and are fine with getting it from fresh fruits/veggies. Should I just get an ant waterer to be on the safe side?
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Finally, for now... Is there anything else I should know?
I only have experience with isopods so far and I have 3 colonies lol. I know BDFB's shouldn't have calcium sand, and avoid a moist habitat except for (allegedly) one corner... But should I be adding anything else besides wood and rock hides? Perhaps some dry (or moist) moss? Should I toss leaf litter throughout lime I do with isopods?
These guys seem really cool and now that I have an oppertunity to buy them for a reasonable price in person I wanted to finally commit to them!
If it doesn't seem like I'm ready I completely understand, but id still like to start getting an enclosure ready for the future regardlesss
Posted Dec 7, 2025, 11:54 PM UTC