Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I have a new Peachthroat and from what I've read they like higher humidity along with the normal high heat (which I have both 85-90 deg with 65-75% humidity). I am using a dirt sand mixture with a top layer of cyprus mulch, silk vines and plants ,etc. Now I have MUSHROOMS growing everywhere...Does this mean there could be other types of fungus that could get on my lizards skin etc. or is this common? What can I use to get rid of this and any fungi?

Thanks,
Steve

Ive had mold growth in the past, but never fungi! Hehe. Must of been a bunch of spores in your dirt. For the mold, I spot clean. It seems to accumulate where there are bits of feces or bits of food, etc.
Maybe youll have to do the same for the shrooms. I really dont know of any other way.
Good luck,
Michelle

Like you, I've dealt with mold but if I'm correct aren't the spores of the shrooms under the caps and when pulled or even dug up drop more spores onto fresh soil. I'm thinking I'm going to need to change the soil. The problem there is I've only had it a couple of weeks and it's just getting settled in. If it's not a health problem they kind of add to the overall look of the cage...But lizard before looks....
Thanks
Steve

I have tried to spot clean though, but honestly they are popping up everywhere....

i have had mushrooms live and die in snake and lizard cages ..the animals don't seem to have any problems with mushrooms..i would suspect that molds might be something to keep an eye on..good luck...billy

Hi,

Now there is a observation I have never heard of before! Well, mushrooms (basidiomycota and less encountered ascomycota fungi) live in damp nitrogen poor soils - go to your local nursery and ask them how to get rid of them using non-pesticides? However, they be no harm to your jobiensis what-so-ever....you can take them to a local botanist/herbalist (or other authority) and if they ascertain they are 100% harmless, have an omelet!

If a wooden cage is used, it could be damage the cage if left damp/wet for long periods of time, so a drier soil moisture content might be considered....which might also remove your fungi and its spores from returning as well...

Good Luck,
mbayless

n/p