So recently I got done finishing my paludarium scape and got it hooked with a pump. So the way it works is that the water at the bottom gets pumped up and streams down the backside back into the ground through the filter layers. Though I came here to ask for help as I am facing a few issues.
First of, as soon as i got water hooked the paludarium started to mold everywhere, I added springtails and they seem to do the job at the very bottom, but everything else is molding and they don't quite make it to the top part where my two bromeliads are pinned. Theres also mold growing on the stems of my bromeliads.
Second problem is that i placed java and spagnum moss where it is quite wet/damp, such as places where the water often streams down. But the moss just seems to rot and die off. Now idk if it has to do with the mold or with the water or the lighting.
Last problem is the water. I cycled the water a few times. I use a mix of half tap half distilled. After I added shrimp from my other aquarium (which is very healthy) to the new paludarium, they died within an hour. I did acclimate them as well just to make sure. I also have catappa leaves at the bottom. I don't know if theres too much bio matter or what but theres something the shrimp dont seem to like. I also noticed that theres like a slight layer on top of the water that reflects (like boat oil on seawater). Dont know how to describe it.
If you can help me I would greatly appreciate it!
by Equivalent-Concern26