Some claim that the sand should be sterilized. Theories vary on how deep the eggs should be buried. Often newly hatched tortoises can be observed eating bits of gravel or egg shell, and it is believed to be an aid in digestion. After the first year, the number of fertile eggs decreases until there are finally no more until another mating takes place. Sometimes the embryo will die during incubation due to dehydration or lack of humidity.
Opinions differ on how much humidity is needed.
Eggs incubated artificially are sometimes lightly sprinkled with water on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. On the other hand, some breeders feel that a jar of water placed in the incubator is sufficient. Some use no water at all. Too much moisture will certainly rot the eggs. Also it is believed by some that the eggs should touch each other to allow passage of moisture from one egg to another.