Re: what plants are safe?

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Posted by BabyHerp on May 09, 2000 at 11:16:39:

In Reply to: what plants are safe? posted by Heather on May 08, 2000 at 19:11:01:

*********Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase************

This is what the PFAF database says about known hazards under the subject : AIR FERN ....one other consideration that if in an "enclosure" the "air" fern will begin to produce a rancid kind of smell and this may not be what you want to accomplish. For decorative plants like Morgan said....artificial (plastic or silk) plants best.Can't tell you how many plants my igs have destroyed eating them to pieces. For foraging....stay with the more "hearty" live plants like Ficus, or hibiscus (love the humidity too!) or low type plants like day lilies (high saponins in 'leaves' so careful if doesn't eat too much of it. Also geraniums, nasturniums, optunia cactus (spineless)varieties. These are just a few safe "live" plants....lots of others Here's the link to the PFAF plant Database....check out the types of plants you may want to put in his enclosure.
Gina

PFAF Plant database

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: *********Although we have found no reports of toxicity for this species, a number of ferns contain carcinogens so some caution is advisable[200]. Many ferns also contain thiaminase, an enzyme that robs the body of its vitamin B complex. In small quantities this enzyme will do no harm to people eating an adequate diet that is rich in vitamin B, though large quantities can cause severe health problems. The enzyme is destroyed by heat or thorough drying, so cooking the plant will remove the thiaminase************ : This is what the PFAF database says about known hazards under the subject : AIR FERN ....one other consideration that if in an "enclosure" the "air" fern will begin to produce a rancid kind of smell and this may not be what you want to accomplish. For decorative plants like Morgan said....artificial (plastic or silk) plants best.Can't tell you how many plants my igs have destroyed eating them to pieces. For foraging....stay with the more "hearty" live plants like Ficus, or hibiscus (love the humidity too!) or low type plants like day lilies (high saponins in 'leaves' so careful if doesn't eat too much of it. Also geraniums, nasturniums, optunia cactus (spineless)varieties. These are just a few safe "live" plants....lots of others Here's the link to the PFAF plant Database....check out the types of plants you may want to put in his enclosure. : Gina

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