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wild ferns

reptilefreak16 Jul 15, 2004 02:50 PM

can i use wild ferns, sanitized, in my veileds cage to add some coverage.what about a baby palm tree, we bought it when we were in florida in february. Thanks

Reptilefreak
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Replies (2)

Carlton Jul 16, 2004 01:50 PM

I don't see why not. Just clean the roots and pot in clean perlite-free soil, wash the leaves to get any pesticide residue or insect pests off. If the cham climbs on the fronds it will probably break them.

Calparsoni Jul 16, 2004 02:05 PM

Considering that veileds tend to eat vegetation and that most ferns are quite tender I would be concerned with them eating the ferns. According to Dr. Fredrich Frye's book on Green Iguanas ( Page 67 & 68 and probably referenced in his books on reptile medicine as well) there is a problem with offering ferns to Herbevorous reptiles due to the fact that some species of ferns contain the enzvme Thiaminase which basically causes Thaimin deficiency. A problem that can cause severe neurological problems. While the particular specie of fern you have may not contain thiaminase it would be better to err on the side of safety and use ferns with chameleons that tend not eat vegetation such as panthers or Jacksons (two species which also have enviromental requirements more in line with the culture of ferns than veileds would be anyway.) As far as your palm is concerned, depending on what kind it is will determine whether or not it is suitable. While many palms contain toxic and irritating chemicals such as oxalic acid, they are generally tough enough that most veiled chameleons would probably not try to eat them. I would be more worried about mechanical injuries to the tounge from palms that have serrated petiole such as the saw palmetto (Serona repens) or Washingtonia palms. Some palms that may work well Would pygmy date palms (Phoenix roebelenii), Rhaphis palms (although they like it a little more humid than most veileds would like) or the common Areca palm (sold at most home improvement stores). I hope that helps

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