Activated Charcoal

Activated Charcoal (also known as activated carbon) has an incredible surface area of well over 1000 square meters per gram! For some very scientific and complicated reasons, this makes it rather good at cleaning, it acts like a chemical sponge in your terrarium, soaking up some of the compounds that could otherwise cause problems and preventing odors. It also creates a superb environment in which beneficial bacteria can develop.

When you look up Activated Charcoal for terrariums, you are presented with quite a few types - powdered, pelletised, flakes to name a few! Some are made of coal, some are made of coir - it can all get a bit confusing.

Our advice? Consider whether you really need it. Activated charcoal is very beneficial in your terrarium, but isn't essential. Its cleansing properties will help keep your terrarium fresh, but its more of an insurance measure than a key component. Sometimes we all like a bit of peace of mind though, so if you are looking for a supply of tried and tested, terrarium safe and responsibly sourced activated charcoal, then this is for you.