Fire-bellied toads and fish

[clownonfire]

Hi,

First of, great site! We have 4 frogs (2 fire-bellied toads, 1 Bumblebee Walking toad and 1 green tree frog) all living in different vivariums.

We have just revamped our fire-bellied toads to mimic as best their natural environment. 1/4 land, 3/4 water. They are really happy with the change (we've had them for a year now). We have a water filter. Here are my questions:

1. Since there's about 4 inches of water, we are thinking about maybe introducing some fish in the tank. Now I've read different opinions on the net... What is a rule of thumb if possible. Better fish than others? We think it would also help clean the tank.

2. We would like to add perhaps a water heater. But since there's only 4 inches of water, it is hard to shop for a good one. Any suggestions, if a heater is needed at all? We have a very low uvb light above the tank for the plants, and the average temperature of the tank is around 23 daytime, and drops to 20 at night.

Thank you,

Eric

[Rocko]

I keep cherry barbs and a few snails in my tank with great success. The major issue is water changes, you need to make sure not only nitrates and such do not build up but also the fbt toxins.

[clownonfire]

Thank you Rocko. How many times do you change your water, i.e. at what frequency?
We also keep an Exo-Terra Moss ball in the tank.

[bshmerlie]

I use a 501 canister filter and still change half the water every week.

[clownonfire]

We've purchased a Fluval 1-Plus. We'll see how this one goes. Has anyone used it?

[Rocko]

I have not used the filter, but I can say with the addition of plants, and waste treatment products, I have gone as long as 3 weeks without water changes. That being said, I'd still recommend changes more often for the benefit of everything.