Question on new pair of Leucs

[Bluestar]

I have a 36 gallon bowfront with a pair of Leucs that were purchased at the same time. Age-wise they are the same.

My question is in the growth comparison between the two. One seems to have almost doubled in size, while the other seems to be growing at a much slower rate. The tank is seeded with springtails, and fruitflies are fed everyday at the same time, using repashy -(spelling?) supplements. Once a week pinheads are substituted for FF. I know that both frogs are eating, as they both congregate at the same area of the tank everyday for feeding, and I've seen the smaller of the two eat.

Just hoping for a little clarification. And to calm my paranoia, could someone please give me a few examples of an aggressive/territorial stance? (I've seen them sitting next to each other like they were getting ready for a race, and other times sitting almost touching snouts. I have never seen any physical contact, so not sure what to make of this)

[froggymike]

Could be male and female.

[Bluestar]

was kinda thinking the same, will be posting some pictures for clarification in a few minutes.

[PantMan]

Out of curiosity how old are they? Any calling? What may look like aggression may be nothing more then romantic interest.

BTW tank size is perfect would love to see some pics. I really like bow fronts, they perfect for display tanks.

[Bluestar]

ok, here's some pictures.

P1000441.JPG



Picture 1 is the frog in question, I call him Peanut Anyway, I placed the straight edge next to him and he didn't even flinch.


P1000442.jpg

Picture 2 is of course the bigger, obviously healthy frog. This one wasn't cooperating for it's photo op


I'll keep working, feeding time is at 5pm and they're good at congregating at the feed spot, so I'll try to lay the straight edge in advance.

thanks so far

[Bluestar]

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure of their age. The owner of the shop (the one with the knowledge but not the breeder) wasn't available. As far as calling, I haven't heard anything. I did play a recording without seeing any change or vocalization.

Is there a particular stance they will take when being aggressive or territorial or is it more of a physical display?

[Bluestar]

here's a shot of the tank

P1000443.jpg

[Bluestar]

managed to get another photo of both close together for comparison.

P1010002.jpg

[§lipperhead]

Yikes, he looks really thin, I recommend paying much closer attention to him. And at 5/8"? How long have you had him? Could be a runt, could be stress from the tank - it looks a little too empty in there, but maybe its just me... Maybe a thick layer of leaf litter would help him feel more secure?

If it's bullying, you would see it - the smaller one gets chased around, jumped on, etc.

If this gets any worse though I highly recommend pulling him into quarantine, feeding him only as much as he is willing to eat at first, and try to bring him back to normal. Maybe fecals to Dr. Frye as well.

[PeanutbuttER]

You should really put some leaf litter in there. The tank floor feels kinda "bare bones" and doesn't provide much in the way of hiding spots for your frogs. Making them feel more secure should decrease any stress they're feeling which may be playing a role in the slow growth you're seeing.

Originally Posted by Bluestar

To be honest, I'm not entirely sure of their age. The owner of the shop (the one with the knowledge but not the breeder) wasn't available.

From experience, let me tell you that generally shop owners know very very little. I've talked to owners who swear that dart frogs are their "specialty" and as we've talked I've realized that they know less than I did. I'd be very skeptical about ANYTHING that they tell you. It seems like half the time they'll make something up when they're asked a question, instead of saying "I'm not sure".