[Dancing frogs]

I was wondering if anyone has tried these in their substrate mix, or as a ground cover, like leaf litter. I've seen it in large bags for what I would consider cheap, says it is all natural, and smells like chocolate 8) .
Anyone have more info like pH, nutrient content, or other pros and cons, let us know,
Thanks,

 

[Guest]

I wouldn't, check this link for reason
http://www.aspca.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cocoabeanmulch

 

[Guest]

sorry to bring this up after so long, but isnt that what happens to dogs when they eat chocolate? if so then i dont think the cocao shells would effect the frogs.

 

[melissa68]

I think that is exactly the point of the article. Residual amounts of chocolate are left on the husks/shells after processing. Animals that ingest this have the same issues (potential heart attack).

Melis

sorry to bring this up after so long, but isnt that what happens to dogs when they eat chocolate? if so then i dont think the cocao shells would effect the frogs.

 

[Guest]

ok, i didnt know that chocolate affects all animals.

 

[melissa68]

I don't know if it would. But, other animals are effected by it, and the use of the husks and the chemical make up are different than their natural habitat.

I would stick with what is already working.

ok, i didnt know that chocolate affects all animals.

 

[Arklier]

I just wanted to point out that AFAIK, there has been zilch as far as studies go on chocolate and animals other than mammals and birds. Plenty of the plants used in vivs are poisonous to animals that would eat them but have no effect on frogs. So you really can't say one way or the other how it would effect darts.

 

[Guest]

I agree, but why take the chance if you don't have to?

 

[Dancing frogs]

Just because it smells like chocolate! :twisted:
Just kidding, :lol: I am very cautious of what I use around my animals.

 

[Guest]

If u soaked the shells before hand how much residue would be left and whatever would have to go through the soil then it would be diluted in the water under the drainage layer with the water. Furthermore the particles would sink like soil does so in the end im not so sure if it really would be that hazardous.

 

[Arklier]

I'm bumping this ancient thread because I've recently spotted cocoa mulch in several nurseries around here. One of the places had some of it out in a bin since they were selling it by the pound, and it didn't smell too strong. The bags claim that it is 100% organic, and darts and cacao trees are from the same general area, the rainforests of South America. Does anyone have any real feedback on this stuff?

 

[Cory]

cocoa shells

I have been using a mixture of cocoa shells for over a year mixed with peat and have had no adverse affects. I would agree that this is a dog specific allergen that probably should not have any affect on other animals.