setting up a nice display for a friend...

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kittyhazelton

Gambusia
MFK Member
Jan 25, 2007
693
0
16
Upper Valley VT/NH
Ok, I'm giving my 125 (6' X 18" X 20") gallon tank to a friend. I'd set it up as a fish tank for them, but they live upstairs, so we're nervous about that.
We're thinking of doing a planted viv with a waterfall and little river. Will be almost 100% live plants (critter safe of course) Lighting is full-spectrum and UVB fluorescents. (was on a planted fish tank, but I also have a few reptile bulbs I can throw into the hood)
Now for stocking, Dart frogs and tree frogs are out of the question because they are illegal (this will be in VT)
Also, cost of the critter is something to keep in mind. Want to have a colony of something that isn't so expensive that he'll freak out about if something goes wrong (I will start the maintenance, and teach him how to keep up with it, but I am moving soon)
Was thinking geckos, or some other lizard. Maybe a whole bunch of anoles? Actually, I kindof like the idea of anoles because they're active. How many would you say could fit comfortably in such a setup? There will be lots of leaf cover. Also, what are some good viney plants to check out that are fast-growing and non-toxic? Any particular house plants to stear clear of?
 
frasertheking;1723452; said:
why not a colony of reed frogs or fire belled toads ?

FBTs are also illegal in VT. plus, want something that's gonna make more use of the climbing space, and be a little more active. No frogs due to legality problems. in VT, pretty much the only frogs you can keep are pixie and pacman frogs.
 
I'm a big fan of mountain dragons/mountain horned lizards (Acanthosaurus sp.). Could try those.
 
What species of anoles?
if greens, do 1 male and 6-8 females. Tell your friend that a colony of anoles eats a LOT of insects.



In my opinion(because i dont want someone else with a 125 with greens. lol) go with maybe Uroplatus phantasticus. A.K.A Satanic Leaf Tailed Geck.
 
How about a pair of day geckos (Phelsuma species) nice colors and relative easy to keep.
 
C'mon guys, geckos? Everybody has geckos. How about helmeted iguanas (Corytophanes cristatus)? They sometimes show up in the shops under the trade name "forest chameleon".
 
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