Substrate Question

[clumsyjellyfish]

So I would like to put just plain soil as a substrate with some sort of carpeting plant to cover it. My cham will be eating from a food dish/feeder cup, so it won't be an issue of him accidentally ingesting some while eating bugs. Would that be safe?

 

[Extensionofgreen]

Sure. Don't count on the chameleon never shooting at the substrate, because inevitability, a feeder will fall and be shot at. Several common annuals can be used to cover substrate. Impatiens, coleus, blue lobelia, pansies, and many others will tolerate the shade in chameleon cages and enjoy the temps and moisture. You'll need to groom the plants and trim them, plus provide adequate, if not ideal light, for the most attractive results.

 

[clumsyjellyfish]

Ok and will necessarily it hurt the chameleon if it ingests some of the soil??

 

[Extensionofgreen]

As long as there are no larger particles of bark, perlite, lumps, charcoal, or other items that could lodge in the intestines and there are no toxic additives, it shouldn't be a big deal.

 

[clumsyjellyfish]

Alright thats what I thought because it's unlikely that a chameleon will never encounter a grain of dirt in the wild

 

[oneillchameleons]

you'll want to put a layer of clay balls or something similar to facilitate good drainage, and add some springtails to begin making the soil active and able to break down organic matter. I will say that if not done properly it can become an unbelievable mess.

 

[KLowery88]

You could also cover the soil with some leaf litter. This will give more hiding places for springtails or whatever clean up crew you want to add in. This is the utility sink that is the base of my cage.