Terrarium: Moss is getting brown

[Filippo055]

Hi All


I made my first terrarium last December following all the recommendations I found on internet (layer of gravel, active carbon, earth, plants and springtails). I keep the moisture level as advised (condensation must form only in the evening and early morning, not in the afternoon). I found however that the moss is getting brown as you see from the latest photos (7-10). I touched the moss and is definitely moist it is not getting dry. I keep the terrarium next to a window but not under direct sunlight, so I think the level of light is again as recommended.


On another topic, I noticed a few centipedes, (photo number 8) will they eat the springtails?


Thank you all in advance for your answers.

[Paphluvr]

Two things come to mind. Was the moss live moss that you collected or storebought moss in a bag? What type of water do you use to water the terrarium (although this would be minimal as it's only been three months)?

[Filippo055]

I picked the moss in a forest in Scotland where I live, the water is from the tap but in Scotland it's very light so I don't think water can cause a problem.

[harpspiel]

Temperate mosses that are used to having a winter freeze period may die back in a tropical terrarium. Seems like some species will just keep growing, but some species just really need that winter rest.

[Mr.Fakename]

I second harpspiel's opinion. Winter rest and temperature swings between night and day can be very important.

[estación seca]

It could also be too much light, if that side of the terrarium faces the window; and slow accumulation of salts in water.