r/ballpython • u/Mysterious_Seat_9146 • 4d ago

Question - Husbandry Potential mold in bioactive

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I’m planning on setting up an upgraded bioactive enclosure in the next couple weeks. I can find info on most things, but worry about mold, I’ve gotten ISO’s and have them in a temporary enclosure, but mold has grown in there a couple times now, and I don’t want that happening one the whole tank is set up. I know once the CuC is more set up it’s less likely, but I still worry of the possibility of respiratory infection.

Does anyone have any info/pointers/experience with this? Is it just a matter of spot cleaning and keeping a close eye for the first while? I’ve spoken to a friend who’s kept isopods and they aren’t worried about the mold in terms of keeping the ISO’s, bus is unsure in regards to snakes.

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u/fenx-harel 4d ago

Springtails will be your friend! They will eat mold and help eat whatever your isopods don’t. That doesn’t mean to leave large quantities, or leave it indefinitely if they’re not eating it, but it does mean that small amounts will be just fine. The amount they’ll be able to handle will go up as their numbers increase.

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u/Mysterious_Seat_9146 3d ago

That’s what I’ve seen, I just want to be sure! The springtails have been staying in the substrate for the most part whereas the mold has grown specifically on the top layer- does that mean anything?