Tag: terrarium

Green Tree Frog Enclosure Requirements

Enclosure Size and Type

• For a single green tree frog, the minimum recommended enclosure size is a 60cm cube (60cm x 60cm x 60cm).
• For 3–4 frogs, a larger enclosure of at least 60cm long x 100cm high x 60cm wide is advised.
• Enclosures should be glass or water-resistant material, as frogs require high humidity and water features.
• The enclosure must be tall, as green tree frogs are arboreal and need vertical space for climbing.

Ventilation and Security

• Use a secure mesh lid or screen top to provide good ventilation and prevent escapes, as frogs are excellent climbers and can squeeze through small gaps.
• Ensure all openings are tightly sealed.

Substrate

• Use moisture-retaining substrates such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss, or coarse orchid bark.
• Substrate should be at least 5cm deep and kept slightly moist to maintain humidity.
• Avoid small gravel or bark pieces that could be ingested, as well as artificial turf or reptile carpet, which can damage sensitive skin.
• Include a drainage layer (e.g., hydroballs or filter mats) beneath the substrate to prevent waterlogging and maintain proper moisture.

Water and Humidity

• Provide a shallow water dish for soaking and swimming; change water daily to prevent bacterial growth.
• Mist the enclosure daily with filtered or dechlorinated water to maintain a humid environment and allow frogs to drink.
• Maintain high humidity, but avoid waterlogging the substrate.

Temperature and Heating

• Ideal temperature range: 20–25°C (68–77°F).
• Provide a heat source (heat pad or ceramic heat lamp) controlled by a thermostat to maintain stable temperatures.
• Place the heat source at one end to create a temperature gradient, allowing frogs to thermoregulate.
• If using a heat lamp, ensure it is fitted outside the enclosure or shielded to prevent burns.

Lighting

• Install a UV-B light tube designed for reptiles/amphibians to support vitamin D3 synthesis and overall health.
• Use a ceramic heat lamp if additional heat is needed.
• Lighting should follow a natural day/night cycle: 10–12 hours of light per day, controlled by a timer.
• Switch off lights at night to replicate natural conditions.

Furnishings and Enrichment

• Provide multiple climbing structures: branches, logs, vines, cork bark, and bamboo poles for vertical movement.
• Include both real and artificial broad-leafed plants for climbing and hiding; live plants also help maintain humidity and air quality.
• Add hiding spots: logs, plant pots, PVC pipes, and ornamental rocks.
• All furnishings must be smooth, stable, and easy to clean to prevent injuries and facilitate maintenance.

Additional Notes

• Enclosure must have both a water area for soaking and a dry area for sitting, feeding, and climbing.
• Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
• Always use filtered or dechlorinated water for misting and water dishes to avoid exposing frogs to harmful chemicals.

Summary Table: Key Requirements

Feature	Requirement/Recommendation
Size (single frog)	60cm x 60cm x 60cm minimum
Size (3–4 frogs)	60cm x 100cm x 60cm minimum
Material	Glass or water-resistant, well-ventilated
Substrate	Moisture-retaining (coco fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss)
Water	Shallow dish, changed daily; mist enclosure daily
Temperature	20–25°C (68–77°F), with gradient
Heating	Heat pad or ceramic lamp, thermostat-controlled
Lighting	UV-B tube, 10–12 hours/day; off at night
Humidity	High; daily misting
Furnishings	Climbing branches, logs, vines, plants, hiding spots
Security	Secure mesh lid, escape-proof

This setup will help ensure your green tree frogs remain healthy, active, and stress-free in captivity.