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Tomato
Frog (Dyscophus antongili)
Tomato frogs are found near
bodies of water in eastern
Madagascar. They prefer
moist areas such as swamps,
ponds, and other slow moving
water sources. Female
tomato frogs are larger and
brighter than males. Adults
can reach 2-4 inches from
snout to vent (not counting
the legs). When threatened,
tomato frogs can secrete a
toxic slime that tastes bad
and is irritating.
Temperature
Tomato frogs need to be
maintained between 75-80
degrees during the day.
Nighttime temperatures can
drop into the low 70’s.
During the summertime you
probably won’t need any
supplemental heating.
However, during the winter
months you should probably
use a low wattage heat
light. A red or other dark
colored light can be used at
night and these lights will
not disturb your frogs day
and night cycle. UVB
lighting is not necessary
but is recommended for
tomato frogs. The UVB light
will benefit any live plants
and enhance the colors of
your frogs. Humidity is
important and you should
mist your cage everyday.
Ideally, the humidity needs
to be maintained between
70-80 percent.
Housing
Tomato frogs can be housed
comfortably in 20-29 gallon
or larger terrariums. The
cage should include plants
(live or silk), branches and
a water bowl. Do not use
distilled or purified water
for any amphibians. Never
place a cage near a window
where sunlight can directly
shine on your cage. Cages
placed in direct sunlight
can easily overheat and
ultimately lead to the death
of your frog.
Bedding
We recommend using bark, Zoo
Meds’ Eco Earth, or coconut
bark. The substrate should
be deep enough for your frog
to burrow.
Food
Tomato frogs should be fed
appropriate sized crickets,
waxworms and night
crawlers. Ideally, you
should feed your tomato
frogs 3-4 times each week.
These frogs also need a
vitamin/mineral supplement
and you should dust its
crickets at least twice a
week.
Cleaning and Handling
The terrarium should be
cleaned as necessary. Any
fecal matter or left over
food should be cleaned out
several times a week. Fresh
clean water should be
provided at all times. The
inside of the terrarium can
be cleaned out with an
appropriate reptile cage
cleaner, we recommend
Natural Chemistry’s Healthy
Habitat. Tomato frogs can
be handled on a limited
basis and always wash your
hands before and after
handling them.