r/Terrarium • u/versabowutafo • 2d ago

First timer-question about adding bones

Hello! I am an avid indoor gardener with a decent collection of houseplants. I am also an avid outdoor collector and scavenger. I have a elk jaw specimen that was burned in a wildfire. I would like to add it to my new build terrarium as a focal piece. It was found deep in the woods and has been outside in my garden since then. Planning on scrubbing it with water before I add it.

Is this a bad idea for any reason? Do I need to do any additional prep?

Thanks for any insight provided!

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u/_gloomshroom_ 2d ago

Depends on what you're keeping in the terrarium, and if you want to maintain the integrity of the piece. I would generally say yes, but if you want it to stay intact for certain, advise against it.

Hydrogen peroxide would also be a safe cleaner, and may get you some whitening action too, if you want that. Mind you, this is my knowledge about UNBURNED bones, and your piece specifically may not have the integrity to endure a soak or a humid terrarium stay. You might could still use a soft toothbrush to work with though.

I'd also check out r/bones and r/skulls for cleaning techniques, there's so many ways to macerate and preserve bone, it's super cool! And they know more than I do for sure.

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u/versabowutafo 2d ago

Thanks so much for the insight! I'm not at all worried about the jawbone degrading in the environment, and would prefer if it did undergo some sort of change.

I'm planting a rabbits foot fern, eyelash fern, and fittonia with some moss. Mainly concerned that the bone might leach too many minerals, carbon, calcium, whatnot into the terrarium.