FCA inserts and red-eyed tree frogs

wishIwereAnExpert · #1 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 01:23 AM

I've been thinking about setting up a vert for a trio of red-eyed tree frogs. I'm hoping to use one of paul's inserts, but I'm not sure how well this would work out. As most of you probably know, red-eyes need low humidity for a couple weeks before breeding; down in the 50-60% range. Anyway, with the FCA vent all the way open, would humidity drop this low? The concept behind the ajustable vent is really cool, but I'm just not sure quite how much of a range you can get.

Thanks,
Solly

kleinhanz · #2 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 04:28 AM

You can completely customize your vert door. Ask Paul about a larger vent opening or adding one at the bottom as well.

wishIwereAnExpert · #3 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 02:25 PM

Yes, I know this is the case. However, I have two concerns. First, I don't want to have so much steel mesh that my view is restricted. Second, though I'm willing to pay more for a custom job if I have to, I don't want to waste it on overkill. Mostly, I'm hoping that someone who has his doors can open the vent all the way, and tell me how low the humidity gets after a minute/hour/day. Thanks.

-Solly

Ed Martin · #4 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 08:51 PM

Paul (FCA) did custom fronts for my RETF and Theloderma corticale enclosures. I got fronts for the 20 high, adjusted the door higher in the insert and added a 2nd vent under it. This allows sufficient ventilation and lowered humidity for these 2 species, while still allowing a nice viewing area and room a 5 - 6 inch filtered pool for the T. corticale. It really works out well. Plus the modifications were really inexpensive! Paul can do whatever you want, I'd recommend working with him.
Ed

wishIwereAnExpert · #5 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 10:32 PM

Ed-
Not to be anal, but do your RETF's breed in your setup? I know that they can happily survive for infinite periods of time in more humid tanks; they only need a drying out to induce breeding.

-Solly

Ed Martin · #6 (**permalink**) 09-30-2005, 11:09 PM

The RETF’s that I have in that enclosure are not yet old enough to breed. But the current humidity in the enclosure is 37% with the top vent open about ½ way and the bottom vent open just a crack. The current humidity in the room is 36%. I have recorded the humidity from as low as 20% and up into the high 90’s depending on various factors. I have had this enclosure set up with frogs for about 5 months
Ed

wishIwereAnExpert · #7 (**permalink**) 10-01-2005, 12:07 AM

Cool. Sounds like I'll contact FCA about the front.

-Solly

Ashli · #8 (**permalink**) 10-01-2005, 04:07 AM

Are you using a 20 high for the trio?

I might be waaay off here...(I dont know much about RETF's) but isn't a 20gallon a bit small for a trio? Most people suggest a 40 or bigger on the other forums I go to.

I'm curious since I'm going to be getting 4 sometime after Christmas and was planning on getting a 50 gallon for them.

wishIwereAnExpert · #9 (**permalink**) 10-01-2005, 04:32 AM

I've read similar things about this being small for a trio of frogs; however, I have several breeding pairs and trios, all in 20 highs or 29's. I have never had any territorial issues. I'm not totally sure if I'm putting a trio or pair in the tank; we'll see what genders the next round of froglets turn out. Thanks for your concern, though.

-Solly

P.S It'd be awesome to turn that 50 into a vert. There have been some journals depicting similar projects. Anyway, whatever you do, be sure to post some pictures!

Ed Martin · #10 (**permalink**) 10-01-2005, 10:17 PM

Solly,
I really like the front, and the lower vent does not obstruct the view of the enclosure too much.
Ed