Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I very recently introduced another Auratus into my 29 gal. This brings the total to:

2 D. Auratus "Panama"
1 Betta Splendens "Blue & Black"

I was just looking at my tank (in fact I'm still looking) and I noticed that my smaller 3/4inch Auratus "Arsenic" was chasing my (new) larger 1-1/4inch Auratus "Cyanide" around the tank. It looks like territorial behavior, but I'm not really sure. If it is territorial, then it seems strange to me that "Arsenic" would be chasing "Cyanide" in such a large tank with so many hiding places. I haven't read anything about Auratus being territorial, but it still worries me that I may have to separate them. I don't have enough money for another set-up anytime soon. So any suggestions, solutions, or general information would be helpful.

Thanks,
Mike

Classical behavior towards a newcomer. Regardless of size, a frog that has established territory will defend his domain against any newcomers. The new frog, being in a strange, new habitat, had no idea what to do other than run. I have seen this countless times with a variety of species and sizes. As long as there isn't any heavy physical contact such as wrestling and pinning, then you shouldn't have much to worry about. Just keep your eye on them and make sure both are eating and maitaining good weight and health.

-Bill J
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Updated list as of: 9/30/03
2.2.6 D. azureus
1.2.14 D. ventrimaculatus 'yellow' (16 tads in the water)
2.3 D. tinctorius 'cobalt' (one subadult)
0.0.3 D. tinctorius 'patricia'
0.0.5 D. auratus 'green/black' (tads)
0.0.3 D. imitator 'Alex Sens line' (1 week)
0.0.2 D. reticulatus (soon)
0.0.2 D auratus 'teal'(soon)

If you have a coconut hut or other easily movable items (potted plant, for example) try moving them to a different location in the terrarium. It helps to equal the playing field for a newly introduced frog.

Don't worry. In no time at all, he'll be begging her for a date.
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Patty
Lost River, Idaho

4 D. auratus blue
3 D. galactonotus pumpkin orange splash back
5 D. imitator
4 D. leukomelas
4 D. pumilio Bastimentos