Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi. My two firebellies when I first bought them over a year ago were a bright, pretty green. About a day later they have turned dark, and only occasionally turn back bright green.

Roger and Chris are healthy, eat plenty, and love to call. Their bellies are still a nice color.

They live in a 10 gal. tank that is all water except for a pot filled with gravel with a cocohut for hiding and fake water lilies to perch on. There is gravel at the bottom, and about 5 inches of water. The pH is about 6.3-6.7, it varies. The temperature of the water ranges from 77-82 degrees. There is normal full spectrum fluorescent lighting. Water changes done monthly, with a Duetto internal filter.

I just saw Roger turn bright green the other day, but they just seem to fail to do it most of the time. I know something in their environment is causing it. They are both eating well, so I don't think they aren't healthy.

I think zuesfrog said firebellies will turn dark when they are in the water long enough. Could this be why? I really miss the fresh green color.

I am new to firebellies but have a couple of ideas. I read they like cool temps, like under 75 degrees. I have 3 in a 10 gallon with gravel shoved to one side with fake log to climb out of the water and a couple of rocks. Also couple of fake plants for hiding. Filter. No light right now but someone told me the 2.0 bulbs would be good.Their tank is in a bright room and get a little morning sun. Also they like high humidity. I put saran wrap over 3/4 of their screen lid to help keep moister in and lessen evaperation. Also use bottled water.
Mine get gut loaded crickets everyday since they aren't adult size yet. They eat readily.
There are also 2 different types of fire bellies but can't think of the names. One is the brighter green and one is the darker. Maybe you have the darker of the 2 species.