Red eyed tree frog housing+ lighting

[LilyPad]

Hello, I'm brand new to this forum, I wanted to see if maybe I could get a more educated opinion of tank sizes for 2-3 RETF's. I have an 18x18x18 live planted tank that I'm planning to let grow in for a couple months before getting any frogs, but my issue with this is with the drainage and soil layer and diy background I made, the tank volume is more like 17 gallons rather than the 23 gallons it would be empty. I had been hoping to get a trio as they supposedly do better in groups, but I'm not sure if this is enough room for 3 of them. If the tank is heavily planted, would there be enough room for 3 of them? What are some concerns with keeping 3 of them in a tank this size (are they prone to aggressive behavior if they don't have the full 25 gallons for 3 of them etc.) I'm a bit confused, when some websites say 10 gallons for a pair plus 5 gallons per extra frog is enough, where others say 10 gallons per frog is needed, or if these sizes refer to empty tank sizes and that starting out with a empty 23 is okay. If it's unsafe to put three in there I'll only get 2 though.

Also, there seems to be a lot of debate on UVB lighting for these guys. I know they're nocturnal, but many seem to believe UVB is still beneficial or even a necessity. Right now the tank is just lit up with two 26 watt 6500k CFL for the plants. The compact top they're in takes up an entire half of the screen lid, so I worry about putting another light on top of the open screen, that it will cut off too much air circulation for the frogs.

Any help would be appreciated, this will be my first time caring for frogs long term in my own home.

Firstly, I would only do 2 in that size tank. An 18x18x24 would have been a much better option, as they like height, but with what you have...I'd only do 2. They don't necessarily prefer to live in groups, they do just fine on their own, but they do just fine in a group also. So don't worry about that if you only have 2.

UVB will always be a debate. I do not use UVB, I use rep-cal + vitamin D supplement with all of my frogs. I used to use UVB and have seen no changes in the health of my frogs or their behavior in the year since I stopped using UVB lighting. There is no reason you cannot switch out your 6500k CFL's for UVB CFL's though if you're concerned. Just keep in mind that they need to be replaced approximately every 6 months to remain effective.

You do need space on your screen top for a good heater. Being in Canada, and having cold winters. This is a MUST. On my 18x18x24, I use a 50 watt ceramic heat emitter connected to a thermostat so that they do not overheat. Under tank heaters are not going to cut it.

A planted tank is definitely a good choice for these guys

Here is a good care article - http://www.frogforum.net/content.php...nis-callidryas

Thanks for doing the research before buying these guys, that will save you a lot of hassle in the long run!

[stat]

Darn, I was hoping I wouldn't hear that the bigger tank would have been a better option . I got the tank for free when someone dumped their leopard gecko in the store I work at, since bought the gecko a more appropriate tank, and frogs have always been interesting to me. Do you think this tank will negatively effect a pair of them if its well planted? I don't like keeping animals in homes that are "good enough". Also, I keep the room they will be in at 75-77 degrees Fahrenheit year round with a plug in oil heater, is it okay if their temp is maintained through the ambient room temperature, or do they need that direct heat source? Worst case scenario I can rethink the critters that will go in here, but I really would like red eyes