Green anole bedding, also called the substrate, is the layer of material that your anole will spend most of its time on when it’s not basking in a piece of driftwood.
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Deciding what substrate to choose
It’s critical that you pick the right bedding for your green anole because it’s a lot more important than most people think.
Because the wrong type of substrate can irritate, cut, or damage your anole’s skin, foot pads (it’s how anole lizards climb), or eyes. It can even cause impactions, which can kill your lizard if it ingests enough of it.
Baby anoles are especially vulnerable to impaction because they have poor feeding behavior and small bodies compared to large chunks of substrate.
This is why it’s critical you choose the best, optimal green anole substrate.
Thankfully, it’s easy once you narrow it down to a handful of options.
I wrote this article from the perspective of a hobbyist who’s been in the game for quite some time.
Of course, you don’t have to take any advice you read from these articles. Use them as a jumping board for research at your pace. Do your own due diligence before ordering whatever bedding you do.
Here are some thoughts on what type of substrate you should use for proper husbandry of your green anole so it creates proper housing conditions.
Note that adult lizards in general are less prone to impaction compared to baby ones.
But you should still consider the risk of indigestion as a smaller, fine substrate may stick to food and thus swallow it. If your lizard eats a little bit, it shouldn’t really do harm.
But a lot over time? It can really cause impaction. The smaller the anole, the more risk there is to consider.
(If you’re completely new to this reptile, see this guide to see if a green anole is right for you.)
While they’re easy to care for, reptiles are completely different from dogs or cats.
Best types of green anole substrate


Here we discuss the various types of reptile substrate on the market and their pros and cons. This list covers pretty much all commercially available anole substrates so you’re not missing out on options.
You’re free to use this guide as a baseline to see what type of substrate is compatible with your lizard. If you have suggestions or feedback, please let me know.
Coconut coir
Coconut coir can be found in smaller packages available for bulk sale. This is basically coconut fiber that’s naturally extracted from the coconut husk.
It’s not only used in reptile bedding- you’ll find it in the construction of doormats, brushes, and even your bed mattresses.
Some people use it for organic gardening because it’s resistant to damage by saltwater and is very durable for creating projects like hanging baskets. Coconut coir can be found in both tan and brown colors.
It’s often sold as a commercial substrate for reptiles because it’s organic and free of pesticides. It’s also easy to dig so pregnant female anoles so they can create a nest to lay eggs.
Additionally, it keeps the anole warm by giving them an inch or so of elevation from the cold terrarium glass.
Coconut coir is pricy when you compare it to other reptile bedding, but it’s renowned for its ability to soak up moisture with ease. This can help keep your anole’s waste from being put all over the tank.
Coco coir is a good choice for green anoles. Just make sure you use a feeding dish so they don’t accidentally eat it when it’s feeding time.
For pregnant females, it’s an excellent substrate for incubation too.
Sphagnum peat moss
Similar to coconut coir, sphagnum peat moss (SPM) is also very similar in texture. Peat moss can be found in organic varieties as well and generally much cheaper per cubic unit vs. coconut coir.
So if you want to save money by buying bulk, peat moss is one of the cheapest organic substrates for green anoles. This gives you peace of mind because you know there are no synthetics in the bedding.
Peat moss is brownish. It can be very fine or slightly chunky, depending on where it comes from (Canada, New Zealand, etc.)
Peat moss is widely available and sold in commercial pet stores. It can be used to create a tropical, jungle, or forested habitats.
Just like coconut coir, peat moss can be used for egg incubation, breeding, digging, and odor absorption. It’s resistant to water and excellent at absorbing waste from your anole.
Often, people will mix peat moss with soil or bark. This can make a very nice combo that has a unique natural look of the wetlands.
The moss may confuse you because it’s often sold as a “jungle mix”. Just make sure it has those long fibrous fir blends with added synthetics. It should be completely natural.
New Zealand moss is the long, fibrous kind that looks like wet twigs. Canadian moss is looser and very fine, which can be bad for green anoles if they ingest it so be careful when you choose. Especially baby anoles which can eat it.
Tip: If you want to save some cash, buy your peat moss from hardware stores. It’s usually in the garden section and comes in a huge bale for just a few bucks. Make sure it’s organic and the right kind.
It’s much cheaper than buying small packages specifically marketed for reptiles even though it’s the same thing.
Reptile bark
Reptile bark is commonly recommended online. In reptile forums, which generally draw the more enthusiastic crowd, you’ll see contrarian advice.
Reptile bark should NOT be used. At least not on its own. It usually is made with larger chunks which can cause some severe effects on your reptile. If you choose to use bark, make sure the pieces are too big for your anole to swallow.
Often, it’s mixed with some other substrate like coco coir or moss. The bark should be completely natural and free of sprays or pesticides. A lot of bark is derived from fir, which is good for holding humidity and keeping it stable.
Bark should be soaked in hot water before use to remove debris and sterilize it.
Replace bark when soiled or every 2 months to keep it fresh and to keep mold off. Smaller pieces may help prevent crickets, worms, or roaches from burrowing, but you can use other bedding for that.
Bark should be heat treated so it’s safe for your anole. Read the package! This way, you know how it’s been processed.
Sand
Never use sand for green anoles. Period. The fine particles will easily be eaten by your lizard. This includes play sand.
Do not use sand with any other substrate. Avoid calcium sand, desert sand, etc. Some soil sand mixes are larger in size. If you choose to use this, make sure that you wash it out to free dust and dirt.
Ensure that the mix is too big to eat for your anole by checking the size of the grains.
Reptile soil
Some people use soil purchased directly from the garden center or nursery. You can get organic soil for cheap and in bulk.
This can be a good substrate when paired with something to absorb moisture and retain heat.
Commercial “reptile soil” also exists. This is usually to build a tropical setup in naturalistic terrariums or paludariums.
It can be used for burrowing females or growing live plants. These products are usually a mixture of soil, sand, peat moss, and other materials.
Check the substrate to make sure that no loose sand particles are present.
Reptile carpet
This is relatively new to the market and has been popular with people getting into the reptile hobby.
Reptile carpet is usually reusable, meaning you can wash it with soapy water.
Some carpets are reversible or even have prints.
The nice part about this is that it saves you money if you can keep it clean over time. They usually have no loose particles like sand which can cause impaction.
However, you still need to make sure the carpet materials can’t easily become frayed or loose from digging.
Reptile carpet doesn’t look as nice as a “real” substrate, but if you want to save money, it may be a good alternative to the actual substrate. Make sure it’s soft and absorbent.
Be sure to follow the cleaning regimen on the package. Reptile carpet doesn’t hold heat or humidity well compared to actual substrate.
So be sure to check that the temperature is set correctly by investing in a good thermometer.
Peat moss


There are many types of peat moss that can be used if you don’t like sphagnum.
Everything from beaked moss to Galapagos moss to New Zealand moss exists. Sphagnum moss is a popular choice in creating wetland environments and is excellent for keeping the humidity up.
It’s also suitable for the incubation of eggs. Feel free to explore the dozens of options available. Just be sure to do your due diligence when considering what type of moss to use.
Here are some pointers:
Free of pesticides, sprays, or other residues
- 100% natural fibers or substrate
- Long-stranded fibers which aren’t easily eaten are much safer than smaller, fine powder-like moss
- Absorbs odor
- Stabilizes humidity
- Holds warmth over time
- Removes water
- Go organic if the option exists
For breeding, the substrate should be digable by the pregnant female so she can create a nest.
You can even mix different types of reptile moss to create a unique look. But I get that moss isn’t for everyone.
If you want to use something else instead of moss in a terrarium, consider using compost, coconut coir, or the other fine options on this list.
Volcano substrate (bioactive)
Volcanic substrate is a bioactive reptile bedding that’s rich in minerals. The volcanic soil is very dense with beneficial nutrients.
This makes it possible to grow plants, improve drainage for waste, and increase the aeration for oxygen levels. If you have live plants, you’ll want to use some sort of bioactive agent to promote rooting.
Many of these mixes contain beneficial bacteria for planted terrariums or vivariums while providing a substrate or mix for your anole.
When used properly, it can help keep the terrarium’s ecosystem clean.
Because each manufacturer has their mixture, you’ll want to research what the ingredients are so that you know it’s a bioactive substrate safe for your anole- just like anything else on this list.
Cypress mulch
Cypress mulch is very pleasing to look at. It’s a combination of large and small pieces of mulch which gives off that natural forested look.
Sadly, it’s not always right for anoles. For starters, cypress mulch contains many different sizes. There are tiny ones that are sharp, which can be dangerous for lizards.
They can also fracture or splinter when walked over, so that’s another threat. Lastly, they often contain debris or dirt. So if you decide to opt for mulch substrate, make sure you get the right size.
It should be natural and free of debris. Similar to soil, pebbles, or leaf litter, mulch can be bought in garden centers for cheaper prices than in pet stores.
Compressed coconut


Compressed coconut is a safe, expandable substrate. It’s coconut fiber that’ll slowly expand when you unpack it. A lot of these products are eco-friendly using renewable resources, so if you want to go green, this is a good option.
Coconut fibers aren’t the same as coconut coir.
This is why it’s so much cheaper than organic coco coir. Each brick expands and makes a few liters of the substrate when soaked with water.
It does require prep. Usually, you’ll place a brick of the substrate into some water. Then it’ll expand in 30 minutes or so. Directions will vary. After it expands, you can use it damp or dry it out before you place it into the terrarium.
Compressed coconut fibers will help get rid of the odors and help absorb waste. It can be recycled after it’s used. It also stores well because it’s compact. Mix with organic fertilizer or similar to create Vivaria soil.
Good for desert or dry setups since it helps keep it nice and arid from moisture contents.
Walnut shells
Walnut shell bedding is commonly marketed for reptiles that are fully grown. Regardless, green anoles can’t be part of this demographic. Sadly.
It’s because the smaller particle size makes it easy to ingest. For larger reptiles, like boas, tarantulas, or bearded dragons, it’s a good choice.
But smaller lizards like anoles or geckos may ingest the fine particles over time which can cause impaction. Walnut shells are usually free of synthetics and absorb heat well.
River pebbles
Pebbles can be used for aquascaping specific areas of your tank. Don’t use pebbles as a foundational substrate.
Only use it paired with something else more practical (like peat or coconut). Pebbles can be used for water features or fencing for live crickets, worms, or roaches.
Do NOT use pebbles for the entire terrarium because the lizard can get its foot stuck between shifting pebbles. Food can also get stuck as with waste. It’s just a mess to clean up.
Make sure that the bells are large enough so that it can’t swallow them or else it’s really screwed.
Gravel
You should never use gravel in a terrarium for anoles because these pieces are just the right size to cause impaction.
If your anole eats one, whether intentionally or accidentally, it can kill your lizard. Anything firm, solid, and hard should be used with caution as a reptile substrate.
For anoles, a substrate that’s smaller than the size of half of its body should not be used as substrate. You probably already know the rule of feeding sizes- you should never feed anything that’s larger than the space between its eyes.
But for substrate, even if it’s larger than the width between the eyeline, don’t use it.
Green anoles can gape their mouth larger than this width, which means they can still fit objects into their mouth that you probably would expect. This includes substrate.
So yeah. Gravel. Don’t use it. That’s for fish.
Reptile aspen
Aspen litter is a soft, compostable material that resembles hay.
If you’ve ever had a small animal (rat, mouse, guinea pig, etc.) you know what Timothy hay is. Aspen litter looks very similar to it.
But sadly, a green anole lizard isn’t a small animal. Therefore, aspen shavings are not suitable for anoles.
The litter can soak up waste or water, which can reduce its size. This makes them easy to ingest which can cause impaction.
Terrarium liners
These aren’t actually substrates, so please don’t get confused over them.
These are just plastic warps that go along the edges of the tank so it’s easier to clean. You need to add substrate to them.
They’re not suitable for any setup unless you need a bare tank for breeding or something.
Bioactive substrate


Don’t get me wrong. The whole bioactive reptile setup is very cool. For those that are unaware, it’s using materials that are real and bioactive to create a live setup.
This allows the terrarium to retain a high level of humidity with an amazing rainforest, loamy scent, and soft texture.
It helps anoles and other reptiles breed, dig, and nest their incubating eggs. It’s probably the most natural setup you can create in your house minus letting your anole go in the wild.
Bioactive substrates each have their blend of ingredients. But most include some combo of moss, fir, leaves, and other microorganisms.
Bioactive setups are different from regular setups because they foster a mini ecosystem of microorganisms that can help break down reptile waste, which means you don’t need to clean it as often.
It can be used to produce nutrients for live plants or other inverts too. If you want your reptile bedding to be a real ecosystem, bioactive is the way to go.
Of course, you’ll want to do your research so you know that the ingredients they use in it are safe for anoles.
Sand mats


Sand mats are the solution to loose sand particles. It’s basically like sandpaper.
The surface of the mat is rough and coarse so it simulates rocky and sandy substrate, but it doesn’t have sand that can be swallowed.
Of course, nothing compares to real sand where the green anole can dig or burrow through. But then again, you probably don’t want that.
If you love the sand setup and the desert-like environment it creates in your tank, consider using sand mats. They’re sold by the tank size so there’s no need to cut to size.
They’re safe, and hygienic and offer a firm grip for your anole so it doesn’t slip. They can also be washed so you can reuse them as necessary, so there are money savings there.
Leaf litter
Leaf litter as a substrate can give your terrarium that natural forested look. But here’s a tip: just collect the leaves from your garden.
It’s the same thing and you can be sure it’s free of pesticides (assuming you know where the leaves came from).
Why buy bagged leaves when you can harvest them yourself?
Leaves can be crushed into smaller pieces or just used as whole pieces to provide coverage. It’s commonly used in bioactive substrates.
Rinse well before use. Leaves have minimal risk of being ingested and causing impaction, but you should still take caution. Keep the pieces big if possible.
Further reading/references
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Choosing an anole-safe reptile substrate made simple


Hopefully you now have a more clear idea of the type of substrate you should get for your green anole. There are many choices you can buy, but not all of them can be compatible with anoles.
Just because there’s a picture of an anole or it says “reptile” on the package does NOT mean it can be used as bedding for your lizard!
If you have any questions about choosing a particular substrate, please feel free to leave a comment and let me know.