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More substrate questions

nufanoo9 Jun 17, 2003 09:50 PM

I recently switched over to a dirt/potting soil substrate for my black-throat. Although he seems to enjoy it, I have noticed certain insects in his enclosure. I think they are called "silver fish." I don't know if anyone else have had this problem. Should I switch back? Any help would be great.

Replies (5)

Dragoon Jun 18, 2003 12:13 PM

Keep the dirt. Like you said, your monitor is liking it. I get those silver fish things too. I just squish them when I see them. Same with whatever other bug I find. Its all good. Little buggies are harmless. Its a small price to pay for the benefits dirt has, for your pet.
Have fun. D.

rayner1 Jun 18, 2003 12:30 PM

None of these are dangerous to our animals?

rayner1 Jun 18, 2003 12:32 PM

what about the excess moisture.I heard that excess moisture could turn into respritory problems.

BRG Jun 18, 2003 02:25 PM

np

Bloodbat Jun 18, 2003 03:08 PM

Those insects and critters won't harm your monitor. Most of them are there to feed on the scraps of food, waste, and other little things in the dirt. It makes for a nice system. Toss in some crickets and if they last long enough they will lay eggs in the dirt and you will have little crickets in there for your monitor to pick off on occasion. Not nearly enough to make a dent in feeding but an easy perk nonetheless.

As for excess moisture, it really depends on what you are calling excess. You don't want your monitor swimming in mud all day. However, if there is a good temperature range and some ventilation, you should not have a problem.

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