Fire Belly Toad

Stats

General Info

This toad’s coloration ranges from grass green to forest green with black blotches. The underbelly ranges from a flame red to a weak orange in color. The brightly colored belly acts as warning coloration to other species. The fire belly toad secretes a toxin when stressed. Be advised to not handle the toads excessively since the oils found naturally on our hands can harm the toads with frequent handling. Whenever handling the toads or cleaning the cage or cage accessories it is always recommended to wash you hands thoroughly beforehand and when finished.

Enclosure

A 10-gallon aquarium with a secure lid is adequate for a pair of toads. When housing toads together it is important that they are the same size as they can be cannibalistic. A 50/50 ratio of land to water is usually the best way to maintain these animals for breeding, either by using a water container, or gravel to create a shoreline. If a gravel shore is used ensure it is covered by smooth river stones, and the land section is covered with damp sphagnum moss to prevent ingestion and impaction. A strictly forest floor type of enclosure is fine if you will not be breeding. If you use sphagnum moss be sure to keep it moist. If using a forest floor type of setup, spot clean regularly and replace the substrate as needed. Fresh dechlorinated water should be offered daily. If using a 50/50 ratio of land to water setup, spot clean the land portion as above and use a filtration system for the water. Partial water changes are recommended weekly.

Heating

Air temperature should be maintained at 68º to 75º F with a basking spot of 74º to 85º F. Water temperatures should be 76º to 78º F. Water temperatures can be raised by using an aquarium heater. All heat sources should be controlled by a thermostat.

Lighting

Twelve hours of daylight can be provided through the use of timers.Reptiles and amphibians cannot see the red spectrum of light, so a large wattage red bulb is ideal for nighttime viewing and heat.

Food

Crickets should be the staple with other insects (mealworms, waxworms, silkworms) fed occasionally.

Note: Your should use these care guides in conjunction with a book or other reliable source or  reptile and amphibian information to provide the best possible care for your pet.