Tree frogs are among the most popular and diverse groups of amphibians in the world. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, and have adapted to different habitats and lifestyles.
Some tree frog enthusiasts may wonder if they can keep different species of tree frogs together in the same enclosure. In particular, can red-eyed tree frogs live with green tree frogs?
The answer to this question is generally no, but it depends on several factors, such as the compatibility, housing, diet, health, and behavior of the frogs.
In this article, we will explore these factors in detail and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Understanding Red-Eyed Tree Frogs and Green Tree Frogs
Red-eyed tree frogs (Agalychnis callidryas) are one of the most iconic and recognizable tree frogs in the world.
They have bright green bodies with blue and yellow stripes on the sides, orange or red feet, and large red eyes.
They are native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America, where they spend most of their time on the canopy.
They are nocturnal and active hunters, feeding on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. They are also known for their loud and distinctive calls, which they use to attract mates and defend their territories.
The Green Tree Frog
Green tree frogs (Hyla cinerea) are another popular and attractive tree frog species. They have smooth, bright green skin that can change color depending on the temperature and mood.
They are native to the southeastern United States, where they inhabit swamps, marshes, ponds, and other wetlands.
They are also nocturnal and carnivorous, eating a variety of insects and other small prey. They have a pleasant and melodic call, which they use to communicate with other frogs and potential mates.
Similarities and differences
Red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs have some similarities and differences that affect their cohabitation.
They are both arboreal, meaning they live on trees and require high humidity and ventilation in their enclosures.
They are both relatively easy to care for and have similar lifespans of about 5 years in captivity. However, they also have some notable differences, such as their size, temperament, and environmental needs.
Red-eyed tree frogs are larger than green tree frogs, averaging 2.5 inches in length, compared to 1.5 inches for green tree frogs.
Red-eyed tree frogs are also more active and vocal than green tree frogs, which may cause stress and disturbance to the latter.
Moreover, red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs have different temperature and lighting preferences.
Red-eyed tree frogs need a warmer and darker environment, with a temperature range of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit and a 12-hour light cycle.
Green tree frogs need a cooler and brighter environment, with a temperature range of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit and a 14-hour light cycle.
Compatibility Considerations for Cohabitation
The risks may include causing stress and aggression, increasing the chance of disease transmission, and creating incompatible environmental conditions.
Compatibility
One of the main factors to consider when cohabiting red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs is their compatibility.
Compatibility refers to how well the frogs get along with each other and whether they can coexist peacefully.
Some tree frog species are more social and tolerant of others, while some are more solitary and territorial.
Generally, red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs are not very aggressive or territorial, and can tolerate living in groups.
However, this does not mean that they can live together without any problems. There are some important considerations to keep in mind, such as the size difference, the temperament, and the territorial behavior of the frogs.
Size Diference
The size difference between red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs may pose a problem for cohabitation.
Larger frogs may view smaller frogs as prey and attack them, leading to injury or death. This is especially true for hungry or stressed frogs, or during breeding season.
Additionally, some tree frog species are cannibalistic and may eat other members of their own species. To minimize this risk, it is important to provide enough food and space for each frog and to separate any aggressive individuals.
Temperament
The temperament of the frogs may also affect their cohabitation. Temperament refers to the personality and mood of the frogs, and how they react to different situations.
Some frogs are more calm and shy, while some are more active and bold. Red-eyed tree frogs are generally more active and vocal than green tree frogs, which may cause stress and disturbance to the latter.
Stress can lead to health problems, such as loss of appetite, weight loss, and a weakened immune system.
To reduce stress, it is important to provide enough hiding spots and cover for the frogs, and to avoid overcrowding and overhandling.
Territorial Behavior
The territorial behavior of the frogs may also influence their cohabitation. Territorial behavior refers to how the frogs defend their space and resources from others.
Some frogs are more territorial and aggressive than others, and may fight over food, water, or mates. Red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs are not very territorial, but they may still display some signs of dominance or submission, such as croaking, inflating, or biting.
These behaviors are usually harmless and short-lived, but they may escalate to serious fights if the frogs are stressed or overcrowded.
To prevent this, it is important to provide enough resources and space for each frog, and to monitor their interactions.
Housing Requirements for a Thriving Environment
A vivarium is an enclosed container that simulates the natural habitat of the frogs, and provides them with the necessary conditions for their survival and well-being.
A vivarium should include the following elements:
- Tank size
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Substrate
- Décor
Tank Size
The tank size is the first element to consider when housing red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs. The tank size should be large enough to accommodate the number and size of the frogs, and to provide them with enough space to move, hide, and explore.
A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 10 gallons of tank volume per frog and to increase the tank size by 5 gallons for each additional frog.
For example, if you want to house two red-eyed tree frogs and two green tree frogs, you will need a tank of at least 40 gallons. However, this is only a minimum requirement, and a larger tank is always better.
Temperature
The temperature is the second element to consider when housing red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs.
The temperature should be within the optimal range for both species and should be consistent and stable throughout the day and night.
As mentioned earlier, red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs have different temperature preferences, which may make cohabitation challenging.
Red-eyed tree frogs need a warmer environment, with a temperature range of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and a slight drop at night.
Green tree frogs need a cooler environment, with a temperature range of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and no significant change at night.
To achieve this, you will need to use a thermostat, a thermometer, and a heating device, such as a heat lamp, a heat mat, or a ceramic heat emitter.
You will also need to create different temperature zones within the tank, by placing the heating device on one side and leaving the other side cooler. This way, the frogs can choose the temperature that suits them best.
Humidity
The humidity is the third element to consider when housing red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs. The humidity should be high and constant, as both species require moist and humid environments to prevent dehydration and skin problems.
The ideal humidity level for both species is around 70 to 80 percent, and should not drop below 50 percent.
To maintain this, you will need to use a hygrometer, a misting system, and a ventilation system. You will need to mist the tank at least twice a day, or more often if the humidity drops.
You will also need to provide adequate ventilation, by using a screen lid or a mesh cover, to prevent mold and bacteria growth.
Substrate
The substrate is the fourth element to consider when housing red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs. The substrate is the material that covers the bottom of the tank and provides a base for the frogs and the plants.
The substrate should be safe, absorbent, and easy to clean. Some of the best substrates for tree frogs are coco fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss, orchid bark, or a mixture of these.
These substrates are natural, and organic, and retain moisture well. They also allow the growth of beneficial microorganisms, such as springtails and isopods, that help break down waste and keep the tank clean.
You should avoid substrates that are toxic, abrasive, or indigestible, such as gravel, sand, wood shavings, or pine bark. These substrates can harm the frogs, cause impaction, or harbor parasites.
Décor
The décor is the fifth and final element to consider when housing red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs.
The décor is the accessories and ornaments that you add to the tank, and provide the frogs with shelter, enrichment, and aesthetics.
The décor should be natural, functional, and appealing. Some of the best décor for tree frogs are live plants, artificial plants, branches, vines, cork bark, driftwood, rocks, and hides.
These décor items create a realistic and diverse environment and offer the frogs multiple places to climb, perch, hide, and rest.
You should avoid décor that is sharp, unstable, or unnatural, such as plastic, metal, or glass. These décor items can injure the frogs, topple over, or reflect light.
Diet and Nutrition for Optimal Health
Feeding red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs properly is vital for their cohabitation. A balanced and varied diet will ensure that the frogs get all the nutrients they need to grow, thrive, and stay healthy. A poor and monotonous diet will lead to malnutrition, disease, and weakness.
The dietary needs of red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs are similar, but not identical. They are both carnivorous and insectivorous, meaning they eat meat and insects.
However, they have different preferences and requirements for the type, size, and frequency of their food.
Red Eyed tree Frogs Preferences
Red-eyed tree frogs prefer to eat flying insects, such as moths, flies, and crickets. They can also eat other insects, such as worms, roaches, and grasshoppers.
They should be fed every other day, and the amount of food should be proportional to their size. A general rule of thumb is to feed them as many insects as they can eat in 15 minutes or about 3 to 6 insects per frog.
The insects should be smaller than the width of the frog's head, to prevent choking or impaction. The insects should also be gut-loaded, meaning they are fed nutritious food before being offered to the frogs.
This will enhance the nutritional value of the insects and provide the frogs with essential vitamins and minerals.
Green Tree Frogs Preferences
Green tree frogs prefer to eat crawling insects, such as crickets, roaches, and worms. They can also eat flying insects, such as flies and moths.
They should be fed every two to three days, and the amount of food should be similar to that of red-eyed tree frogs.
The insects should be smaller than the length of the frog's head, to prevent choking or impaction. The insects should also be gut-loaded, as explained above.
Suplements
In addition to gut-loading, both red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs need supplements to complete their diet.
Supplements are powders or liquids that contain extra vitamins and minerals that the frogs may not get from their food.
The most important supplements are calcium and vitamin D3, which are essential for bone health and metabolism.
Calcium deficiency can cause metabolic bone disease, a serious condition that affects the skeleton and organs of the frogs.
Vitamin D3 deficiency can cause rickets, a condition that causes softening and deformity of the bones. To prevent these problems, the insects should be dusted with calcium and vitamin D3 supplements before being fed to the frogs.
The frequency of supplementation depends on the age and health of the frogs, but a general guideline is to dust the insects with calcium every feeding, and with vitamin D3 once or twice a week.
Health Considerations for Successful Cohabitation
Keeping red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs healthy is crucial for their cohabitation. Healthy frogs are more likely to coexist peacefully and harmoniously, while unhealthy frogs are more prone to stress, aggression, and disease.
Therefore, it is important to monitor the health of the frogs regularly and to take preventive measures to avoid potential health issues.
Some of the common health problems that may affect red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs are:
- Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the frogs lose more water than they take in, and can cause lethargy, weight loss, and skin shedding problems. Dehydration can be caused by low humidity, high temperature, or insufficient water sources. To prevent dehydration, it is important to maintain high humidity, moderate temperature, and clean water in the tank. The water should be dechlorinated, filtered, or treated with a water conditioner, to remove any harmful chemicals or contaminants. The water should also be changed regularly, to prevent stagnation and bacterial growth.
- Parasites: Parasites are organisms that live on or in the frogs, and feed on their blood, tissue, or waste. Parasites can cause irritation, inflammation, infection, and organ damage. Parasites can be external, such as mites, ticks, or leeches, or internal, such as worms, protozoa, or bacteria. Parasites can be transmitted by contact, ingestion, or vectors, such as mosquitoes or flies. To prevent parasites, it is important to quarantine any new frogs for at least two weeks, and to check them for any signs of parasites. It is also important to keep the tank clean and sanitary, and to avoid feeding wild-caught or contaminated insects to the frogs. If parasites are detected, it is important to consult a veterinarian and to treat the frogs with appropriate medication.
- Fungal and Bacterial Infections: Fungal and bacterial infections are diseases that are caused by fungi or bacteria, and can affect the skin, mouth, eyes, or internal organs of the frogs. Fungal and bacterial infections can cause symptoms such as redness, swelling, discharge, ulcers, or lesions. Fungal and bacterial infections can be caused by poor hygiene, low immunity, injury, or stress. To prevent fungal and bacterial infections, it is important to keep the tank clean and dry, and to avoid overcrowding and overhandling the frogs. It is also important to provide adequate ventilation and filtration, and to avoid using harsh chemicals or detergents in the tank. If fungal or bacterial infections are suspected, it is important to consult a veterinarian and to treat the frogs with appropriate medication.
- Impaction: Impaction occurs when the frogs ingest something that cannot be digested, and blocks their digestive tract. Impaction can cause symptoms such as loss of appetite, constipation, bloating, or vomiting. Impaction can be caused by feeding inappropriate or too large insects, or by swallowing substrate, décor, or other foreign objects. To prevent impaction, it is important to feed the frogs insects that are smaller than the width or length of their head, and to avoid using substrates or décor that are indigestible or abrasive. If impaction is suspected, it is important to consult a veterinarian and to treat the frogs with appropriate medication or surgery.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Decision
Cohabiting red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs is possible, but not easy. It requires careful planning, preparation, and maintenance, and may not work for every situation. Before deciding to cohabit these frogs, you should consider the following questions:
- Do you have enough space, time, and resources to provide a suitable vivarium for both species?
- Do you have enough knowledge and experience to care for both species and to handle any potential problems?
- Do you have access to a veterinarian who specializes in amphibians and can treat any health issues?
- Are you willing to accept the risks and challenges of cohabitation, and to monitor the frogs closely and regularly?
- Are you prepared to separate the frogs if they do not get along or if they show signs of stress or disease?
If you answered yes to all these questions, then you may be ready to cohabit red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs.
However, if you answered no to any of these questions, then you may want to reconsider your decision or seek more information and guidance from experts or experienced keepers.
Cohabiting red-eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs can be rewarding and enjoyable, but it can also be stressful and risky.
It is not a decision that should be taken lightly, or based on impulse or aesthetics. It is a decision that should be based on research, knowledge, and responsibility. Ultimately, it is a decision that should be made with the best interest of the frogs in mind.
FAQs
What are the differences between red eyed tree frogs and green tree frogs?
Red eyed tree frogs are a species of arboreal frog native to Central and South America. They have bright green bodies with red eyes, blue sides, and orange feet. Green tree frogs are a group of frogs that belong to different genera and live in various regions of the world. They are mostly green in color but may have other markings or patterns.
Can red eyed tree frogs live with green tree frogs?
Generally no, but depends. It is not recommended to house red-eyed tree frogs with green tree frogs or any other species of frog. They may have different needs, carry different diseases, or stress each other out.
What are the risks of keeping red eyed tree frogs with green tree frogs?
Some of the risks are stress, injury, and disease. Stress can lower the immune system and make the frogs more prone to illness. Injury can result from biting, scratching, or swallowing. The disease can spread from different pathogens.
How can I provide a suitable environment for red eyed tree frogs?
You can provide a suitable environment for red eyed tree frogs by mimicking their natural habitat. You will need a large, well-ventilated terrarium with plants, branches, and a water dish. You will also need to maintain a temperature of 24-29°C, a humidity of 60-80%, and a 12-hour light cycle.
What do red eyed tree frogs eat?
Red eyed tree frogs are insectivores, meaning they eat insects. You can feed them a variety of live insects, such as crickets, moths, flies, and worms. You should dust the insects with calcium and vitamin supplements once or twice a week. You should also provide fresh water daily.
Are red eyed tree frogs shy?
Red eyed tree frogs are not very shy, but they are nocturnal and mostly active at night. They may hide during the day to avoid predators and rest.
What is the easiest frog to take care of?
Many frogs are easy to care for, but some of the best ones for beginners are African dwarf frogs, White's tree frogs, and Pacman frogs. They have simple needs and are hardy.
Should I get my frog a friend?
It depends on the species and personality of your frog. Some frogs are social and may enjoy the company of others, while some are territorial and may fight with others. You should research your frog's natural behavior and compatibility before getting a friend.