To add a clecn-up-crew or not, that is the question

[LarryMac]

Almost finished planting my new paludarium (1/3 water & 2/3 land) with broms, moss, ferns... What is you advice on adding a clean-up crew (springtails & pods)?

[vegetalmatter]

In my experience, 100% yes! Even if you don't plan on adding any animals.

(If adding animals then 500% yes)

I've had a few vivariums/paludariums over the years, some with reptiles and some for just plants and I've always added both springtails and isopods. They help with the initial mold cycle and will help keep in check other critters (good or bad) that might be lurking in your plants/substrate. Even with no reptile poop to clean up, there will always be mold/algae/fungus growing on wood and other surfaces for them to munch on. I haven't seen any downsides to adding a good clean up crew.

[DirtyCoconuts]

yes, i see zero risk with only springtails or also a few pods (lol, never heard that) if you want


as said above it only helps and then continues to help

[Draikan]

Yep I have springs in all my tanks, even the bare tanks just for growing and dividing plants. Zero downsides to springtails. They stay in the tank on their own too since they prefer the humid air.