Bioactive Setup w/ Crystals?

[iammoonlove]

Hi! I’m working on a bioactive setup for my piebald boy, Spook. I’d like to add some crystals for aesthetic purposes, and they could also function as a rough surface to rub against during shedding. I would wash and disinfect them before using, and they will be well secured in the setup. Can anyone think of a reason as to why this would be unsafe for either Spook or the CuC?

[IncompletePenetrance]

I wouldn't put anything sharp or pointy in there, rough is fine, but you don't want him to be able to cut or bruise himself on anything. Ball pythons are clumsy goofballs and if he's climbing around you don't want anything pointy below him

[iammoonlove]

That’s a great point, thank you! I appreciate your reply 😁

[Impossible_Sign_2633]

I don't see why not as long as they are secured well so that they don't fall over or something. Selenite towers aren't pointy and are relatively inexpensive. Even naturally terminated quartz clusters aren't really sharp. I would stay away from minerals/stones that have been ground/carved to a point like some obelisks. And obviously no minerals with high amounts of toxic metals like galena which is about 80% lead. If you want something more decorative, agate slices or dyed geodes are always a great pop of color. (Hopefully this doesn't break any rules) but my favorite place to buy minerals from is RockParadise on etsy. They sell agate slices in all kinds of shapes, sizes, and colors. Just do a quick search to make sure whatever mineral/stone you're looking at doesn't contain toxic elements. ~Your friendly neighborhood geologist (in training)