what would i need to keep one of these (Very Detailed)..........
What do i need to worry about.....
First things first... plenty of books! Some good authors are Philippe de Vosjoli, Bob Mailloux, Marc Staniszewski, Devin Edmonds etc
• 20-gallon high tank for small to medium sized treefrogs. 30+ for large tree frogs
• Coco fiber substrate, branches, artificial plants, cork bark and water dish
• Low-wattage incandescent heat lamp or spotlight with reflector dome, if necessary for heat or basking
• 5% UVB light and starter unit and reflector or canopy to provide a photoperiod and help make use of calcium from food
• Plug timer for lights
• Digital thermometer and hygrometer
• Dimming thermostat (if using heaters)
• Pump up sprayer for misting
• Water dechlorinator
• Calcium and Multvitamin supplement, such as Repashy Calcium Plus
• 2 plastic tanks, one for livefood and the other for keeping the frogs in when cleaning the main tank
• Comercial insect feed and water crystals, along with safe fruit and vegetables (see online or in books on what is fine to feed the insects)
• Razor blade for cleaning fecal matter off glass
A tall tank, yes.
Also a water bowl but just about any bowl can work.
There are a few different things you could do for substrate. You could have coco fiber and change it occasionally. You could have paper towels and change them frequently. Or use a soft reptile carpet and wash it frequently. Or you could set up a shallow level of water at the bottom of the tank, with plenty of things (sticks, rocks) for the frog to climb out onto. If you do that, you'll need a small filter. Treat it like a normal fish tank (cycling etc). Finally, the most complicated and buying-things-intensive but also the most permanent, least work option, you can make a bioactive planted tank. Instructions on how to do that are in the Vivariums topic on this site.
One money-saving thing I've found, for the two plastic tanks recommended, I've used clear storage containers, well washed out. I cut a hole in the top and hot-glued mesh over it.
Luckily I haven't had any use for a razor blade since mine don't seem inclined to poop on the glass.
Now for the 'What you need to worry about' part:
Keeping the temperature and humidity within range for whatever species you choose. Some frogs tolerate wider ranges than others.
Feeding the feeder insects with nutritious vegetables. You should only have to feed the frogs every 1-2 days.
Changing the water if you have a water bowl. It's important to do it every 1-2 days to prevent bacteria growth.
Changing the substrate if you have a setup where you need to do that. With coco fiber that's a few weeks to a month or so, I think.
Finding a frog you really like and learning it's lifespan and requirements. Actually that should come first.
A planted tank is by far the lowest maintenance option.
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