Sphagnum Moss as Substrate

[jadegreen]

Hello, I've been wondering about whether there's a good alternative to sphagnum moss as a terrarium substrate, or if anyone has any tips about maintaining it. I have had problems with mold and started keeping it drier, in which case it sticks to my frog's belly. I also just saw my frog take a big old mouthful of it while eating a mealworm. Is this something to worry about? Thanks!

[jarteta97]

Have you ever considered live moss?

[LilyPad]

Couple of questions... What kind of frog? Do you have enough ventilation (if required) to prevent mold? I use plantation soil in my tree frog tank with a drainage layer. I also bowl feed which helps prevent them from eating anything they shouldn't.

[jadegreen]

I have a White's tree frog and the terrarium is not especially well ventilated since I try to keep the humidity high. I have considered using live moss but I am afraid to introduce parasites to the terrarium by using moss from outside. I will look into plantation soil though, thank you!

[LilyPad]

White's tree frogs need good ventilation. Do you have a screen top? You can keep the humidity up by misting the tank instead. A lot of people on here tong feed their white's also to prevent them from chomping anything else.

Here is a link to a care sheet-- Frog Forum - White's Tree Frog Care - Litoria caerulea -- it describes how to set up proper housing for your frog in more detail than I can come up with off the top of my head.

[Strider18]

You can always order soil and moss from other places and reduce the risk of bringing parasites into the enclosure. What soil are you using? If it is cocofiber or ecoearth you shouldn't have to worry about your frog. But if it was something else it could be a problem. I hope this helps!