Mushrooms Growing in Substrate

[darthink]

Hi everyone,

I recently got a nice Mist King mister and re-did my chameleons cage. Put a new live plant in (an umbrella) and new substrate down. It's been about a week or so now, and I see little tiny stems rising from the surface of the bottom with little heads on them. I'm fairly certain they are mushrooms.

Is this going to be dangerous? I think that spores probably were embedded within the mossy substrate I put down and that's their source.

Thanks for any help you can provide!

 

[CLP]

The more serious issue is the substrate itself which is generally not recommended. Two reason for this:

1. Concern that your chameleon might accidentally ingest it which could cause choking or impaction.

2. Exactly the issue you're seeing. Becuase of all the misting and dripping of water, the substrate tends to hold all that water and can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. Hence the mushrooms (fungus). This could make your cham sick.

I would get that substrate out of there right away. Not sure what kind of enclosure you have, but I'm assuming the bottom is not mesh with the substrate in there. You'll likely have to look at a drainage system or something to absorb the excess water once the substrate is gone. You don't want water building up at the bottom of the enclosure.

 

[DavidBuchan]

One of the reasons why mossy substrate isn't a great idea. It can also easily get tangled up in a cricket and accidentally eaten and cause a blockage. If it's sphagnum (often used for reptiles) then it is also quite acidic.
Probably best to get rid of the moss and mushrooms because respiratory infections happen so easily.

 

[Lovereps]

Most people here know that some shops recommend substrates--- and they do look very nice--- but those of us with cham experience know that it is an unnecessary and serious danger to your cham's health.
The 2 previous replies have listed the specific and potentially fatal problems that it can cause.