Tomato Frog
Scientific name: Dyscophus antongilii
Round-bodied frog with intense red color, endemic to Madagascar.
Quick facts
- Approximate size6–10 cm
- Average weight40–80 g
- Life expectancy6–10 years
- ActivityNocturnal
Basic information
- Home: humid forests and disturbed areas near ponds and streams in Madagascar.
- Food: insects, earthworms and other terrestrial invertebrates.
- Sexual dimorphism: females are usually larger and bulkier than males.
- Predators: birds, snakes and small mammals; their skin secretes irritating substances that can deter attacks.
Life in the wild
What this species is like in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
Species overview
The tomato frog is a striking amphibian that helps focus attention on the unique Malagasy biodiversity.
Natural habitat
Originally occupied humid forests, but today is also observed in disturbed areas as long as there are ponds and shelters.
Behavior
Spends much time on the ground, hidden among leaves and roots, coming out at dusk to feed.
Special traits
Its skin secretes sticky and irritating substances that act as defense against some predators.
Conservation and threats
Threatened by habitat destruction and excessive collection; protection of key areas is a priority.
Curiosities
Striking details about this species that help better understand its biology and role in ecosystems.
- Its intense red color resembles a ripe tomato, hence its common name.
- When threatened it can inflate its body to appear larger.
- One of the most well-known Madagascar frogs in terraristics.
- Its populations depend on conservation of island wetlands and forests.
Welfare profile
Summary of the most critical points if this species is kept in captivity at specialized centers.
Facilities and space
Medium
In captivity requires spacious terrestrial terrariums with humid substrate and shelters.
Water, light and microclimate
Medium
Needs an aquatic area or clean water containers to hydrate and eventually reproduce.
Handling and stress
Medium
Tolerates observation better than more nervous frogs, but handling should still be minimized.
Tomato Frog in captivity
General information intended for professional facilities and educational projects. Not intended to encourage capture or improvised keeping of wild amphibians.
⚠️ Amphibians are particularly vulnerable to pollution, emerging diseases and improper handling. Before keeping species like this, it is essential to review local regulations and seek qualified advice.
Suitable facilities
Can be kept in specialized facilities with responsible criteria, avoiding extraction of wild specimens.
Feeding in responsible centers
- Diet consists of varied insects and occasionally other appropriately sized invertebrates.
- Crickets, roaches and earthworms.
- Calcium and vitamin supplementation.
Handling and welfare
It is useful to offer multiple hiding spots to reduce continuous exposure to the public.
Ethical message
Like other Madagascar species, its story serves to discuss the fragility of island ecosystems.
This section has an educational purpose. Amphibian conservation involves, above all, protecting ponds, rivers, forests and wetlands, and avoiding irresponsible release of exotic species.