Introduction
Tomato Frogs (Dyscophus ) are small terrestrial frogs, great for beginners. These small frogs originate from Madagascar. There are 3 species of Tomato Frogs (D. antongilii, D. insularis, D.guineti ) but they all have the same care.
Size & Longevity
Female Tomato Frogs are larger than the males. Females average at 4 inches in length while males average at 2 ½ inches. With proper care, Tomato Frogs can live up to 10 years.
Tank
A 10 gallon tank can house 1 female Tomato Frog or 2 male Tomato Frogs. If housing 2 females together or a male-female pair, the tank should be at least a 20 gallon.
*NOTE*- Do not house an adult and baby together as the adult could see the younger Tomato Frog as a food item.
Substrate
Tomato Frogs should be kept on a humidity holding substrate such as eco earth, reptisoil, organic topsoil, or a bioactive mix. Tomato Frogs like to burrow so the substrate should be at least 2-3 inches deep.
Heating
Most Tomato Frogs will be fine with room temperature but if your room is constantly/regularly below 65 degree Fahrenheit, it is recommended to put a heat mat on the back of the tank that is connected to a thermostat and set to 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lights?
Tomato Frogs do not need any special lighting however, a UVB stiplight that runs the length of the tank would be beneficial.
*NOTE*- If using a UVB striplight do not use calcium with D3 as this can cause calcium overdose.
Water & Humidity
Tomato Frogs should have a water dish that they can fit their entire body into but it shouldn’t be very deep. It should only go to half their height as Tomato Frogs are not good swimmers and could easily drown in deep water dishes. The water dish should also be easy for the Tomato Frog to climb in and out of.
The humidity in a Tomato Frog’s tank should range from 50-70%.
Food
Tomato Frogs are primarily insectivorous. They should have a staple of feeder roaches or crickets. They can occasionally be fed black soldier fly larvae, waxworms, and small hornworms. As a rare treat they can have a pinkie mouse but only when they are fully grown adults. All insects should be dusted with calcium (with and without D3) and vitamin supplements.
*NOTE*- If you are using a UVB striplight then do not include calcium with D3.
Handling
Tomato Frogs should not be handled unnecessarily. If you absolutely need to handle your Tomato Frog then wear gloves and wash your hands before and after handling. Tomato Frogs can become ill if handled as they absorb everything through their skin, including the residues on your hand. They can also secrete a toxin when threatened (in this case being handled) which can be very irritating which is why it is important to wash your hands.
Cohabitating?
Tomato Frogs are cannibalistic and should not be housed with another Tomato Frog if they are not similar in size. A Tomato Frog that is smaller than the other Tomato Frog in an enclosure has a higher chance of being seen as prey and eaten.