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3 Best Moss for Leopard Geckos

Leopard geckos are relatively easy to care for. Still, they are unique creatures that have adapted to a specific habitat and need to stay in that same environment to maintain their health. Therefore, the owner is responsible for making sure that animals’ enclosures mimic their natural habitat because of this reason. 

There are many options available when it comes to choosing a substrate for your leopard gecko terrarium. However, your gecko may suffer serious health complications if you fail to make the right choice in the long run. 

Therefore, all the factors should be considered before buying moss. Read on and discover the 3 best moss for leopard geckos. 

Why Do People Need Moss for Leopard Geckos?

People need moss to keep their leopard geckos’ hide moist. Moss is an excellent substrate for leopard geckos, as it keeps their hide moist.

 It is a good mist insulator due to its natural antimicrobial properties and ability to hold moisture. In order to keep the humidity stable for longer and prevent harmful bacteria from growing, these factors play a crucial role in maintaining health. 

Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for When Buying Leopard Gecko Moss?

It is sometimes difficult for people to understand what they are purchasing when they buy moss over the Internet, in particular. The purpose of moss products varies, although most are made from natural plants.

Many people appear to be getting the terminology wrong, as it’s often used interchangeably. We recommend carefully reading the description when buying moss online and paying attention to the reviews. Apart from this, you can consider the following factors:

Best Moss For Leopard Geckos
Terrarium Sphagnum Moss is one of the best moss for leopard geckos

Natural Product

Moss made with natural material provides better habitat for leopard geckos. They feel more comfortable at home as it contains that earthy and pleasant smell they are familiar with. Therefore, choose the product which is all-natural and sustainable. 

Control The Humidity

Humidity is an essential factor when choosing a moss since too much moisture may promote bacteria while too little would cause harm to your pet’s skin. A reptile or amphibian such as leopard geckos needs different amounts of moisture depending on its species. 

Durability Or Reusability

Durability and reusability need to be carefully considered. Mold formation can disrupt your leopard gecko’s health. So, choose moss that can be cleaned and reused often to avoid harmful bacteria growth. 

Best Moss for Leopard Gecko & Reviews

There are many ways to use moss, from decorating the leopard gecko habitat to more practical uses such as creating a moss hide or moist hide for leopard geckos. Having studied the different moss types and the available products on the market, we feel these 3 are tops the rest.  

In a hurry? Check our leopard gecko moss types comparison below

Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Our highlight

Moss TypesNatural ProductControl the HumidityDurability Or Reusability
Terrarium Sphagnum MossAdded DyeHighHighly durable and sometimes reusable
Zoo Med Terrarium Moss 10 GallonAll-naturalAverageModerate
Galápagos (05248) Sheets of Real MossAll-Natural HighHighly durable and reusable

Terrarium Sphagnum Moss 

Living plants and animals are what make your terrarium beautiful. Ideally, you would want to choose a moss that provides a comfortable home for your little friend. It is a versatile, leafy moss with a smooth texture that makes suitable habitat for reptiles.

Galápagos (05213) Terrarium Green Sphagnum Moss, Natural, 4 Quart
  • Terrarium Moss: This long-lasting, long-fiber leafy green sphagnum moss makes a great bedding substrate for amphibians and reptiles, helping create the ideal humidity for tropical and wetland terrariums
  • Ideal Habitat: Washed and cleaned to remove dust and particles, this moss is great for enhanced humidity and shedding, making a perfect habitat for geckos, lizards, frogs, snakes, and other tropical and temperate species
  • Home and Garden: We carry a wide array of natural mosses and lichens including Spanish, sphagnum, reindeer and mountain moss, sheet moss and moss balls; Perfect for florals, decorative baskets, gardens, houseplants, terrarium habitats, and more
  • Sustainably Sourced: Our products are sustainably procured and never toxic; We take great care to partner only with companies that make environmental responsibility a priority
  • Natural Elegance: Whether you're bringing new life to your living space, enriching your garden for spring, or designing a centerpiece for a special occasion, it all starts with heart

Last update on 2022-12-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Overview:

  • Long-fiber & Green Moss
  • Sustainable
  • Washable
  • Premium-quality

Terrarium Sphagnum Moss is a perfect bedding and humidity source for your gecko, which can also be reused when fluffy. With its inherent fungicidal properties, it can prevent odors, mite infestations, and fungal growth in your leopard geckos’ terrarium.

Customer Review: It’s a fairly soft and aromatic moss, and once it gets damp from humidity and warmth. It becomes soft and aromatic with a musty smell typical of moist moss, which our leopard geckos love to lay in before and after shedding.

Terrarium Sphagnum Moss Pros and cons

ProsCons
Striking & vibrant dark green color
Non-toxic dye used
Pleasant smell
Highly durable 
Green color can leave imprints 
pet leopard gecko on a natural moss
pet leopard gecko on a natural moss

Zoo Med Terrarium Moss 10 Gallon

Zoo med moss is 100% natural and can be placed in any terrarium. The moss is a non-living product that can withstand just about any weather as long as you keep it tidy and clean. 

Sale
Zoo Med Terrarium Moss 10 Gallon
  • Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.
  • All natural green" product"
  • No dyes
  • Available in 5 sizes including a mini compressed bale size for multiple terrariums.
  • All natural "green" product

Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Overview:

  • All-natural Products
  • Dye-free
  • Great incubation medium

Zoo med moss is the perfect substrate for crested geckos and leopard geckos as it is reusable. This can be used for any reptile species since the humidified environment is conducive to resting and sleeping.

Customer review: I put sphagnum moss in spots below the potting soil in my terrarium for garden snails for hiding extra space. They love it, as it has this earthy smell and holds moisture well. I’ve also had a lot leftover for the price, so I’ve been able to switch it out whenever I’ve needed.

Zoo Med Terrarium Moss 10 Gallon Pros and cons

ProsCons
Earthy Smell
Holds moisture well
Different sizes available
Green color shed off after prolonged use.

Galápagos (05248) Sheets of Real Moss

Galapagos Sheet Moss makes an ideal substrate for reptiles and amphibians that love humidity. It is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. You can drape it over rocks, logs and even use it as a terrarium background! 

Last update on 2022-12-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Overview

  • Soft & flat pieces of real moss
  • Retains moisture
  • Highly absorbent

Galapagos Sheet Moss is reusable, and due to its ability to retain and disperse water, it naturally increases ambient humidity.

ProsCons
VersatileMoisture-retentive substrateAll-natural productNot long lastingExpensive than other moss 

Does Moss Cause Impaction for Your Leopard Gecko?

Yes, it is possible to get an impaction after eating moss. It is an obstruction that occurs when some indigestible materials block the intestines. The entire digestive system can collapse if left untreated. This can result in death.

Signs to Know A Leopard Gecko Has Ingested Moss

Your leopard gecko might show signs of impaction after ingesting moss, which may include loss of appetite, dark spots on the body, bloating, constipation, cloaca licking, feeling lethargic, and weight loss. 

How to Prevent Moss Ingestion In Leos

The best method for avoiding complications associated with moss ingestion is to prevent it. Read the following directions to prevent your leopard gecko from eating moss.

  • Ensure the leo gets enough food. To ensure that the insects get the required vitamins, calcium, and minerals, you could dust them in supplement powder.
  • You should substitute damp kitchen towels with moss if you notice the leopard gecko eating it.
  • Test the feces every six months for parasites.
  • Perhaps you can try using tongs to feed your leo if he ingests substrate when he catches prey.
Note that using moss in your pet lizard’s enclosure can also serve as substrates. Therefore, avoid using substrate “A” because it’s likely to cause impaction if ingested. Instead, use substrate “B”.

Final Verdict 

Your choice of terrarium moss should create lush and magnificent miniature gardens, whether they are outdoors or indoors.

A good terrarium plant should combine imagination, joy, and functionality. Galapagos Sphagnum is the perfect moss for your plants and animals. It doesn’t shed and keeps its color for a long time.

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