False Tomato Frog
Size
They can grow to between 5.5 – 9.5cm. They can weigh between 35g and 145g, with females being significantly heavier.
Habitat and Distribution
False Tomato Frogs are terrestrial, nocturnal amphibians usually found in rainforests, swamps, and marshes. The False Tomato Frog is found in the eastern rainforest belt of Madagascar.
Age
They can live up to 6 – 8 years.
Diet
Varied diet of live insects. Key staples include crickets, cockroaches and earthworms, as well as waxworms or mealworms.
Groups and Breeding
They are generally solitary and nocturnal creatures. They do not require social interaction with other frogs to thrive and are often content living alone. They are opportunistic, with breeding peaking from January to May, though it can occur almost year-round. They will lay 1,000–15,000 eggs that hatch quickly.
Threats
The IUCN has listed this species as Least Concern, however their numbers are decreasing. They are threatened by the pet trade, habitat loss and environmental pollution.
Interesting Facts
When attacked, the False Tomato Frog puffs up, increasing its size by up to 75% to deter threats.
Their skin secretes a thick, white, sticky substance that acts like glue and numbs the mouths of predators.
The False Tomato Frog During Your Day Out in Kent
We have our False Tomato Frog is on display in our Reptile House, which is home to various species of snakes, lizards, geckos, turtles, tortoises, amphibians and crocodilians.