Tiny bugs in water

[dberg]

Hello -

I have a recent issue where I am seeing very tiny bugs floating in the water bowl every morning. I am worried that they may hurt the Skink. Is it possible these are mites or something from the chips? I am using a Cypress Mulch for the bedding. what is the best way to take care of this do i need to replace the entire bedding? The chips have been in the tank about 6 months and i scoop up the droppings daily but have not done a full chip replace in at least 6 months.

Picture attached, appreciate the help !

Adam

[splashy07]

I've often found 'substrate bugs' that seem to materialize from cypress mulch, coco husk etc that are harmless to reptiles but can be a bit disconcerting. Those are not mites and won't bother your lizard. I often find them soon after changing out substrate and putting in new. Sometimes gnats also, which I capture for my baby mantises! (An actual useful annoyance!)

[dberg]

Ok awesome thanks. So nothing to worry about , do I need to address the substrate bug problem in the mulch with new mulch or something ?

[Belfast Bluey]

They look like springtails which are a great clean up crew and tend to appear in humid conditions :-)

[splashy07]

I agree. they won't bother your pet, and they eat garbage!