Learning Objectives
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
- Understand the role of leaf litter, bark, and mosses in a bioactive vivarium.
- Identify safe and unsafe plant materials for dart frogs.
- Install and maintain top-layer materials correctly.
- Support microfauna populations using natural cover.
- Recognise signs of healthy decomposition and nutrient cycling.
Lesson Content
Leaf litter, bark, and mosses are not decorative extras—they are essential components of a living rainforest ecosystem. These materials mimic the natural forest floor, provide shelter for microfauna, create secure hiding places for dart frogs, and help stabilise humidity.
A vivarium without a functional top layer will struggle to maintain bioactive processes.
1. The Importance of Leaf Litter
Leaf litter is the cornerstone of the rainforest floor.
In the wild, dart frogs live in, under, and around decomposing leaves.
Leaf litter provides:
- shelter for frogs
- food and habitat for isopods and springtails
- moisture retention
- natural humidity buffering
- a gradual source of nutrients
- protection for plant roots
- physical structure over the substrate
A bioactive tank should always have a thick layer covering at least 50–70% of the substrate.
2. Safe Leaves for Dart Frogs
Only certain leaves are safe in vivariums. They must be:
- toxin-free
- pesticide-free
- tough enough to decompose slowly
- non-resinous
Common safe species:
- Guava leaves
- Magnolia leaves
- Indian almond / Catappa
- Sea grape
- Live oak
- Beech
- Sycamore
- Jackfruit
- Loquat
Avoid toxic or resinous leaves, such as:
- eucalyptus
- pine
- cedar
- walnut
- cherry laurel
- anything sprayed or collected near roads
Never use leaves of unknown origin.
3. Depth & Placement of Leaf Litter
A good starting depth:
3–5 cm of leaf litter
(roughly two to three layers of leaves overlapping)
Recommended placement:
- Spread evenly across the tank
- Tuck some leaves under wood and cork
- Leave open “micro pathways” for frog movement
- Allow leaf litter to build up naturally over time
Adding fresh leaf litter every 4–8 weeks supports microfauna cycles.
4. Bark & Hardwood Pieces
Bark and hardwood materials add structural support and microhabitats.
Common materials:
- Cork bark flats
- Cork rounds
- Malaysian driftwood
- Mopani (use sparingly due to tannins)
- Spider wood
- Grape wood
Bark provides:
- microfauna hiding zones
- shelter for frogs
- stable surfaces for plants like mosses and liverworts
- elevation changes in the layout
Cork is particularly valuable because it is rot-resistant and lightweight.
5. Mosses & Ground Covers
Mosses create a natural look and help stabilise humidity.
Common vivarium moss types:
- Sheet moss
- Cushion moss
- Fern moss
- Java moss (aquatic but can adapt to moist surfaces)
- Mood or pillow moss (use carefully — often requires acclimation)
Benefits:
- moisture retention
- microclimate development
- root protection
- soft landing areas for froglets
- aesthetic natural feel
Care tips:
- avoid placing moss directly in heavy water flow
- mist regularly
- ensure bright light for long-term health
- avoid overly hot, dry environments
6. Decomposition & Cycling
A healthy top layer will slowly break down over months.
Signs of a thriving decomposition cycle:
- small holes appearing in leaves
- flakes of leaf material turning into soil
- isopods actively feeding underneath
- springtails abundant at the surface when disturbed
- no sour smell
- no thick white mould patches persisting
Natural mould is normal
In the first few weeks, white mould often appears on leaves and wood.
Springtails will reduce this over time.
7. Refreshing the Top Layer
Maintenance is simple:
- Add fresh leaf litter every 1–2 months
- Replace moss if it becomes brown or melted
- Add new bark pieces as needed
- Avoid cleaning excessively — this removes microfauna
The top layer should never be sterile; it should feel alive.
Key Takeaways
- Leaf litter, bark, and mosses are essential—not optional—in a bioactive vivarium.
- Only use safe, pesticide-free leaves such as magnolia, guava, and catappa.
- A bioactive tank should contain 3–5 cm of leaf litter across most of the surface.
- Bark provides shelters and microhabitats for both frogs and microfauna.
- Mosses stabilise humidity and create natural microclimates.
- Healthy decomposition is a sign of a functioning ecosystem.
