18 x 18 x 24 zoo med? Best dart frog?

[dynekevin]

Alright, so i've been looking to get my first dart frog vivarium going. I am about 3 months in on research. So far i have been especially interested in the following frogs Leucomelas, cobalts, and veradero.

I caught a deal at my local reptile shop for the 18x18x24 zoomed tank that i couldnt pass up.

To my understanding the only arboreal dart frog would be the thumbnail veradero (of the frogs im interested in). I had planned to start with a couple leucomelas or cobalts but now i have this vertical tank. Opinions? I definitely want what is best for the frogs no matter what. I was thinking just going straight into the thumbnail species (i have done my research in care and believe i can handle them).

Just looking for some feedback guys. Any opinions would be great. Thanks

PS Returning the tank is not a option =))

[Philsuma]

Excellent choice of enclosure - "Front opening Viv" and you are right...that Viv is better suited for your single "arboreal" for lack of better term - Imitators / Veraderos, choice of the three frogs that you listed. Beautiful frogs, nice call, breed easily and display VERY well.

Excellent choice of first frogs - all of them. The sexual ratios are what you need assistance with. I would try to purchase a proven adult pair of Veraderos for that size Viv. You could also go with 3-4 froglets but you'll most likely need to seperate one or two when they mature and scrap.

1.1 or....1 male and 1 female. That would be easiest to start out with and those frogs are not too $$ and pretty commonly found in adult sizes and proven pairs.

Heck, I'm impressed you spelled the latin names correctly....not kidding about that.

Where are you located ? If you like close by to some breeders....it's fairly common to get a GREAT deal and not have to worry about shipping costs and perils.

[dynekevin]

Thanks for the quick response time!! I was excited to see someone replied so quickly (new to these forums).

I live in the chicago land area and would be willing to drive up to about 3 hrs from here. I think i will definitely go with your advice with the proven adult pair of Veraderos. I really just want to avoid the fighting/wrestling all together lol!

[Azurel]

I have this same viv waiting to be built and 4 other Zoomeds already built.....I really like the single pane front. I also started out with R. imitator 'varadero'. They are quite bold and are out and about for most of the day. I can say they(atleast mine) do not travel to the bottom 1/3 of the tank vary often. I think I can count on one hand the amount of times I have seen them in the leaf litter over the 9 months or so that I have had them. They are an awesome choice...So is that viv it's a personal choice but I prefer the Zoomeds.

[Philsuma]

You're in luck. There are a ton of hobbyists in the Chicago area. You should easily be able to find some nice Veraderos closeby for a nice price and not have to worry about shipping.

Othere advice: Take your time....read a ton of threads here first. No rush.

[dynekevin]

awesome thanks for the advice guys. I started my build last night. Im taking step by step pictures of my progress. And as for getting the frogs.. i wont worry about that until the viv is completed and is "growing in".

[dilbuina]

What colleges should I look at to become a wildlife biologist? I've noticed that not many schools have this exact major. Can I still go to one without it and still pursue a career in wildlife biology? What major/s would I have? If you know of any amazing wildlife biology programs please mention them. Also I think it would be great if the college had some sort of research facility. Thanks?

[Philsuma]

What colleges should I look at to become a wildlife biologist? I've noticed that not many schools have this exact major. Can I still go to one without it and still pursue a career in wildlife biology? What major/s would I have? If you know of any amazing wildlife biology programs please mention them. Also I think it would be great if the college had some sort of research facility. Thanks?

Go here:

the-lounge-off-topic-f9/wildlife-biologist-undergrad-degree-program-t5071.html

I started a new thread for you.