Myth 88: “It is good to equip chameleon cages with mossy branches.”
Natural Conditions
Species that inhabit mossy forests are accustomed to such environments. Moss-covered branches are part of their natural habitat.
Captive Conditions
This is not the case for the most commonly kept species, Chamaeleo calyptratus and Furcifer pardalis.
They do not live on mossy branches in the wild.
C. calyptratus in particular inhabits acacias and other dry-branch vegetation.
Do Not Use Mossy Branches
The reasons mossy branches are not recommended in captivity can be summarized in three main areas:
1. It Is Unnatural
For species adapted to dry branches, the moist environment pressed between their soles and the underlying branch macerates the skin. This softening makes them vulnerable to fungal and bacterial attacks, leading to discomfort, irritation, lesions, and in severe cases, lethal consequences.
2. It Is Dangerous
Moss is rarely kept alive in chameleon cages. Tropical mosses are unavailable, and mosses from colder regions die quickly.
Living moss retains pockets of water, soaking up large amounts that would otherwise drip down or evaporate.
Once dead, moss becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. These pathogens can contaminate the chameleons' feet and spread spores throughout the cage and even the surrounding facility.
The result can be respiratory and dermal reactions in any organism exposed to it.
3. It Is Risky
Even for chameleons that naturally encounter mossy branches in the wild:
They have far greater choice and do not remain on moss continuously.
Nighttime temperatures in their natural habitats are generally higher, reducing the risks of fungal and bacterial growth.
In captivity, cooler nighttime conditions amplify the dangers described above.
Disclaimer
If captive biotopes provide both mossy and non-mossy branches, are near-identical to natural habitats, are not excessively misted, and are cooled down to the lower 60s °F (below 18 °C) at night, the risk is minimal.