Other name: Madagascar Tomato Frog; False Tomato Frog
Scientific name: Dyscophus antongili
Type: Frogs
Habitat / Place of Origin: All three species of Tomato Frogs (Dyscophus antongili, D. guineti, D. insularis) are found in the northwestern part of Madagascar. These frogs love to burrow in the moist substrate of the forest floor. Since deforestation is becoming a problem with their native habitats, they are also found in people’s gardens and plantations.
Size and Coloration: The Tomato Frog gets its name from its bright dark red or reddish orange body color. The body color makes them nearly resemble a tomato. When threatened they also puff out so their bodies are round like a tomato. Some individuals tend to have different color variations, with some being more yellow in body color. Males are not as brightly colored as the females and are more dull. Juvenile and young frogs are also dull then later on develop their colors. Some frogs also have a thick black line starting behind the eye running along the belly to the top of the back leg. Adult Tomato Frogs will reach up to 4 inches.
Caging: A standard 10 gallon tank is suitable for two adult Tomato Frogs. Up to 3 can live in a 15 gallon. If housing more, space must increase. A secure screen top is also needed.
Captive Care: Temperatures should be kept within the range of 75-82F during the day, with temps dropping no less than 70F. Humidity should be high and should be between 65-75%. Substrate is also very important. Peat moss, non-chemical potting soil, coco fiber, or even a mix of these can be used for the substrate. The substrate can be covered with leaf litter or sphagnum moss for additional cover. Keep the substrate damp, but not so moist it’s runny. Misting is a good water to keep the enclosure moist. Water can be provided in a shallow water dish. Make sure whenever water is used, that it’s de-chlorinated or bottled water. Add tank décor that will allow the frog ample hiding spots. Cork bark, fake plants, driftwood, and other items may be used.
Breeding: When mating season arrives (the rainy season), Tomato Frogs will breed and lay eggs around very slow moving water or stagnant water. In captivity, breeding has proved to be rather hard but has been done with the creation of a rain chamber after a period of hibernation.
Diet: Feed a variety of prey items such as crickets, flies, moths, worms, cockroaches, and others. Food should be dusted twice a week with a calcium and multivitamin supplement.
Temperament: Tomato Frogs are nocturnal and only come out at night. When these frogs are threatened, they will produce a milky substance that may be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. These frogs are ambush predators and sit quietly waiting for food to come to them. Never handle these frogs as human oils and salts from the skin are toxic to them. If handling is to be done, wash hands before and after and keep it to a minimum.
