Mold in coconut fiber

Mark said:
Try mixing the coco fibre 50/50 with organic topsoil. Mould will grow on coco fibre to begin with because it doesn't have the micro organisms to keep it in check. It's basically dried, shredded vegetable matter (coconut husks). Once you add water the first colonisers will be fungal. Adding topsoil will inject a whole host of micro organisms which will help tackle mould growth.
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Thank you so much for the advice! Which brand of top soil would recommend like something available at Walmart mart or more of a specialty choice??


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Well, I'm in the UK so I don't know what brands are available in US stores. You want a topsoil that has no additives, such as fertiliser or improvers. Check the small print for any extras that might harm your newt. Perhaps someone in the US could recommend a safe brand?

I use 100% topsoil for most of my terrestrial setups. Sometimes if I'm feeling frivolous I'll add in some coco fibre to improve moisture retention.
 
Ok sweet thank you I'll talk to my local specialty store I'm sure they have some soil with no additives in it!


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Would it also hurt to line the bottom of the tank with rocks?


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A rock layer can be used if drainage is an issue. It's not necessary if you are lightly misting every few days. If your substrate is becoming water logged you're spraying too much. If I were housing terrestrial newts outdoors I'd add a layer or stones to allow rain water to drain more effectively.
 
Mark said:
A rock layer can be used if drainage is an issue. It's not necessary if you are lightly misting every few days. If your substrate is becoming water logged you're spraying too much. If I were housing terrestrial newts outdoors I'd add a layer or stones to allow rain water to drain more effectively.
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Thank you I went with the rocks just to be safe when I set it up yesterday!


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