What’s Growing in My Vivarium?

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What’s Growing in My Vivarium?

Visible mold is a common occurrence in bioactive vivariums, and often creates fear and worry in pet and plant owners. However, mold is essential for a healthy, naturally-cycling environment. So, if you spot a white fuzzy mold that resembles cotton candy, do not fear because it is completely normal. Mold is a type of fungus, and fungi are saprotrophic. Meaning they are involved in the processing of decayed organic matter. Both mold and decomposing matter are essential to bioactive habitats because it provides a food source for microfauna or your “clean up crew.” Springtails, isopods, and other microfauna will consume and cycle the mold into a usable food source (nitrogen) for plants.

Although vivarium mold is essential to bioactive habitats, mold can also become a problem. If microfauna are not present in your tank, or the colonies are not large enough, visible mold growth will persist. If the mold growth begins to become a larger issue, add more microfauna or remove the mold manually.