Is there anything wrong with damp substrate?

[hberry221b]

I use cypress mulch in my tank since I heard it kept humidity up better than aspen, but I've been reading some threads that advise against damp substrate. For the most part the substrate is my tank is average for mulch, but under my snake's hide it is noticeably damp. If this is not advisable how do I prevent it?

[Stewart_Reptiles]

Damp substrate = high humidity too high of humidity is as mad as low humidity and can lead to respiratory issues.

Damp substrate can also lead to scale rot.

How to prevent this, once you buy your mulch let it dry out some (it will dry faster if you keep it in a heated room for a while before using it)

[nightrainfalls]

when water gets bacteria and mold in it, then it is bad.

Damp substrates are hard to keep clean, so a whole tank with damp substrate can cause problems with infections.

Your snake will probably actually make use of damp hides however.

Many of us use a high humidity hide, especially around shedding time, since snakes often make extensive use of humid hides.

By limiting the humidity to a small area, it is easier to keep everything clean. The substrate in the humid hide can be changed frequently and the hide itself can be kept scrupulously clean.

Trying to maintain an entire tank at high humidity is very difficult and should generally be avoided unless the species needs that high humidity (ie BRB).

I live on the shore of a Lake and my cages seldom fall much below 70% humidity and often run as high as 85%. My snakes have no problems as long as the substrate in the cage does not have excessive moisture, and as long as the water in water dishes is changed often.

I never let any water stand on the substrate, and I inspect for defecant daily. When defecant is found the substrate is replaced and the entire cage cleaned with hydrogen peroxide, followed by distilled water, followed by a thorough drying with paper towel.

I have small tupperware bowls with snapping lids that I put my snakes in while cleaning their cages. I spend about 20 minutes cleaning a cage.

David

[gaitedappy]

I use a coconut fiber and cypress mix, so when I do a substrate change things can be sort of damp (I use the dehydrated coconut bricks for that portion). This is good for my glass tanks and dry homestead, but I still let the mulch dry completely before I must anything down again.

My other step in preventing mold is completely sifting through the substrate at least once a week and mixing things up to be sure there are no overly damp areas, except for the damp hides I have placed on purpose.

No matter what you do damp substrate will have its risks, just make sure everything is monitored so you can provide the healthiest living space possible for your snake.


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