Description

Frogfather V2 Self-Dusting Fruit Fly Feeder

A slow-release fruit-fly feeder with an integrated supplement chamber.

The V2 was developed from Frogfather’s practical experience to reduce handling during feeding and encourage flies to pass through a supplement chamber before entering the vivarium.

How it works

• Fits a standard 32oz fruit-fly deli cup.
• Adult flies leave the culture through the feeder pathway.
• A supplement chamber places powder in that pathway so exiting flies can pick up supplement.
• Larvae remain within the culture while adults disperse into the enclosure.

An important limitation

This device should not be treated as a precisely dosed supplementation system. The amount of powder adhering to an insect can vary with the powder, insect, humidity, contact time and grooming. Peer-reviewed amphibian nutrition literature specifically notes that the amount retained during insect dusting is difficult to quantify and can decline rapidly after dusting.

For that reason we have removed earlier wording implying that every fly receives complete or identical vitamin/mineral coverage.

Using the supplement chamber

Use only a suitable feeder-insect supplement and follow its directions. Keep the powder as dry as practical and inspect it regularly; replace it if it becomes damp, contaminated or compacted.

At Frogfather we use our All-in-One Vitamin & Mineral Dust. Our routine use of that product is Frogfather husbandry practice; supplementation requirements vary among species and life stages.

Daily and unattended feeding

The feeder can be used as a slow-release device during normal husbandry. Do not assume that its presence alone guarantees adequate food intake or supplementation. Observe body condition and feeding where possible, maintain backup cultures, and arrange appropriate animal care when away rather than relying solely on an automatic feeder.

Cleaning

Clean and dry reusable parts between cultures as appropriate. Inspect the feeder for blockage, excessive moisture or contamination before use.

Sources & further reading

• Ferrie et al. – Nutrition and Health in Amphibian Husbandry
• Clugston & Blaner – Vitamin A metabolism and actions in amphibians