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[X-Factor]

EXCELLENT first post! What jumps out to me is the humidity, that is WAY too low. Temps are low too, but not nearly as bad as the humidity. Try getting some insulation to wrap around the outsides of the cage, that humidity needs to be about 75%. Acquariums are pretty bad regarding humidity unless you are misting every day or using a humidifier (which you certainly could). Also, I mentioned this in another thread, getting a small space heater for the room works well at raising ambient temps, thus limiting the need for an undertank heater. Are you using thermostats on your heating pads? Where are they located? What are you using for guages?

edit: as far as substrate, try newspaper, it seems to be the easiest to clean adn take care of as your BCI doesn't like the carpeting. if that doesn't work, you CAN use Aspen shavings, just make sure you properly treat it before using it (freeze or bake) to eliminated any possible mites.