Strange millipede substrate odor

[CrispyNugs]

I made a big batch of substrate for my millipede (A.Gigas) because I bought a bigger box for her and i noticed the substrate smelling like ammonia (the millipede is fine, she is behaving normally and doesnt smell so i dont think the odor is coming from her), my substrate is made of cocofiber, leaves, beech and sphagnum moss, could it be the high level of moisture of the substrate (it is very moist as mentioned in my previous post and i have left it out to dry) that is causing this smell or something else and is it dangerous for my millipede and/or me?

 

[Arthroverts]

Ammonia typically comes from something decaying in a way it shouldn't; I would recommend changing the substrate.

Thanks,

Arthroverts

 

[CrispyNugs]

Ammonia typically comes from something decaying in a way it shouldn't; I would recommend changing the substrate.

Thanks,

Arthroverts

could it be some of the dead leaves or the ground cuttlefish bone?

 

[Arthroverts]

It could be, but I can't really say any further than that.

Thanks,

Arthroverts

 

[HooahArmy]

As a keeper of millipedes, I have experienced this issue before and also highly recommend a FULL substrate change. I work with toxins and poisons as a part of my job, and knew that the odor was coming from anaerobic and other decay-deriving bacteria that were growing the dark and damp conditions of the milly enclosure, producing ammonia as a product. If the ammonia smells bad for us both, it certainly would smell rather awful for the millipedes themselves. Ammonia is also highly toxic and corrosive and could pose a harm to your friends by deteriorating their exoskeletons or generally by poisoning them as they burrow or feed.
The scent of ammonia is commonly found among humans with cleansers and hair dyes. Any person who has dyed their hair or deep-cleaned a bathroom would vouch for how pungent this is. If we couldn't imagine basting in the smell of it ourselves or rubbing it over our bodies, neither would the millipedes. A cheap change of substrate should easily tidy up your issue and would be much more affordable than replacing sick friends!

 

[CrispyNugs]

As a keeper of millipedes, I have experienced this issue before and also highly recommend a FULL substrate change. I work with toxins and poisons as a part of my job, and knew that the odor was coming from anaerobic and other decay-deriving bacteria that were growing the dark and damp conditions of the milly enclosure, producing ammonia as a product. If the ammonia smells bad for us both, it certainly would smell rather awful for the millipedes themselves. Ammonia is also highly toxic and corrosive and could pose a harm to your friends by deteriorating their exoskeletons or generally by poisoning them as they burrow or feed.
The scent of ammonia is commonly found among humans with cleansers and hair dyes. Any person who has dyed their hair or deep-cleaned a bathroom would vouch for how pungent this is. If we couldn't imagine basting in the smell of it ourselves or rubbing it over our bodies, neither would the millipedes. A cheap change of substrate should easily tidy up your issue and would be much more affordable than replacing sick friends!

would drying up the substrate help, until I can get more?

 

[CrispyNugs]

I moved her to a temporary enclosure until I can make more substrate, if everything goes well she should be back at the big box tommorow with new substrate

 

[HooahArmy]

Nice! Lovely millipede too!
Drying the substrate will definitely help clear the mold, yet you'll need to ensure that it's bone dry to completely kill the pathogens within. I sometimes freeze my substrate if I plan on reusing it. Depending on the size of your enclosure, you may choose to dry or freeze, or simply replace as you mentioned since it's much easier. Replacement also will ensure that there are definitely no pathogens hanging around even after the drying, and ensures that the ammonia isn't left about. Your millipede friend is very fortunate to have you! Your enclosure is comfy and marvelous too.