What kind of moss?

[michael]

I was wonder if anybody has tried the moss that you buy at art stores in a terrestrial setup and if they had did it kill the salamander or if it worked good.

 

[kyle]

I have not specifically tried it, but I'm also not positive what type of moss you are talking about.

Many people avoid the use of peat moss because it has a very low pH, and the acidic nature has the potential to harm amphibians.

If you are using something like "sheet" moss, you are probably more than safe, as its just a normal plant (that is already on its way out, so it will eventually turn brown and need to be replaced. Before that happens, its best to replace it.

Another kind of moss you can use is Java moss if its available to you. Its what I would call a semi-aquatic plant, being able to grow completely submerged in an aquaria setting, but also can grow up out of the water as long as it is kept very wet. So depending on the type of salamanders you are going to use it for, this can be the best type of moss to use.

 

[jennifer]

I have used that type of moss, bought from Walmart. I soak it in several changes of water before using. The main problem with it is that it tends to contain a lot of general debris, some of which can decay during the soaking. The dry moss you get from pet shops is cleaner.

 

[michael]

Ok thanks i think i might try it.

 

[mark]

hey, i've found that some of the best moss is the kind you gather outside, its usually greener, and last longer, not to mentioin cheaper. It still needs to be replaced but not so often, and don't use if your worried about small bugs getting into your room. Other than that it is great.