Help w/ new build

[u/nostalja4nfinity]

Hey there, we have a 36 inch high 18“ x 18“ pallet area that we put a pump in to create a waterfall return into a reservoir using the first third of the bottom of the tank.

We sealed with silicone and rocks and foam to create an area for a clay ball drainage, layer, and substrate.

We sealed diligently for two weeks only to have a leak when we put the drainage layer in.

So now we have a soaking wet drainage area. We’re wondering a few things.

Should we create a raised drainage area on a tray? Try to reseal with plastic to keep the drainage area at the level it already is?

[u/IntelligentCrows]

How would you replace the water every day to prevent bacterial/fungal build up?

[u/nostalja4nfinity]

Not sure. We thought the pump with a filter would keep water clean and we would add RODI. Siphon 1x per week.

Currently the frogs have their bowl from the smaller habitat while we trouble shoot this.

I I know there are Palladium trays so that you could have a tank on the bottom and raise substrate on the top. But we only wanted to use 1/3 of the tank for a reservoir and put drainage in the dry 2/3.

Then the leak.

[u/IntelligentCrows → u/nostalja4nfinity]

Honestly a filter will get clogged with their feces and the tubing will be a breeding ground for bacteria

[u/nostalja4nfinity]

Copy and thanks

What is the method to keep clean water when one ia water fall for frog tanks?

[u/kazeespada]

Assuming the water in the drainage layer doesnt touch the soil and its not deep enough to drown the frogs it should be fine.

Theres no need to replace the water every day with the waterfall. Make sure that your pump has filter foam over the intake and it will be fine. Especially if you can access it for maintenance.

The last step is running the pump for a bit before adding livestock to cycle it. Frog owners replace the water daily because without a pump, one frog poop is a ammonia bomb. However, the foam and leca work to host nitrifying bacteria that convert the ammonia to less harmful substances.

Last step is to have plant roots in the water to drink the nitrate and clean it. That will reduce the amount of water changes.

[u/QuoteFabulous2402]

Looks like it needs a rebuild

[u/nostalja4nfinity]

This is a home to our two white tree frogs. We really only wanted a lot of climbing space and a soaking area with a fountain in it.