AMPHIBIANS
Amphibians are divided into three basic groups; caecillians,
salamanders (including newts), and frogs and toads. They are very diverse in their habits and life-sustaining needs, and many do not make suitable pets, as their life requirements cannot be met by the average pet owner.
HOUSING
When setting up a home for your new pet, there are several
conditions that have to be considered. The first is caging. Most amphibians do very well in a terrarium set-up. This can be provided by taking an aquarium of suitable size and dividing it into two sections: one for land and the other for water. Those species of amphibians that are totally aquatic, such as the clawed frog and various newts, should be kept in an aquarium half full of water with a piece of cork bark, or other floating material, provided to give the animal a rest area. Declorinated water should always be used for your amphibians. Make sure that your set-up has a secure lid to prevent escapes. Never house different species together. Many amphibians secrete toxins that can be deadly to others. Secretions from some wild-caught poison arrow frogs are so toxic that they have been known to kill people if ingested. Due to captive breeding, toxins are greatly reduced to non-toxic levels; for this reason, these frogs are now enjoyed by more & more hobbyists. Pick your breeder wisely to make sure their arrow frogs are captive bred. Remember that it is very important that you wash your hands after handling your pet. Temperature is of the utmost importance with amphibians. A good rule of thumb is: Tropical species (from Africa, south Asia, or Central and South America) generally do best at warmer temperatures, in the range of 75 to 80 degrees F. Temperate species (from North America or Europe) generally do best at cooler temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees F. Keep in mind that altitudes make a difference. Mountain forms come from high altitudes, which are cooler, and should be kept at lower temperatures. Research where your amphibian comes from and try to simulate that environment.
FEEDING
Amphibians eat a variety of foods, however with the addition of
vitamin and mineral supplements, this can be narrowed considerably. Diets for salamanders and newts should consist of the following food items: earthworms (cut to an appropriate size for the animal being fed), and all appropriate size of crickets and wax-worms. These food items should be sprinkled with a powdered vitamin/mineral supplement, and should be offered at least twice a week. Frogs and toads do not require as varied a diet . They will survive quite well on crickets alone as long as they are sprinkled with vitamin/mineral supplement. Earthworms can be given as an occasional treat. Some of the larger frogs, such as the large clawed frog and Argentine horned frog thrive on mouse pinkies and fuzzies. Give appropriate size portions. Frogs and toads should be fed at least twice a week.
HEALTH
There is very little known about the diseases of amphibians, although
with time, our knowledge is increasing. The most important thing to remember is to keep the cage clean, especially after feedings. The reason for this is that amphibians achieve part of their breathing through their skin. If food is left in the cage more than 24 hours, it will rot and foul the water, thus injuring the skin of your pet, resulting in possible death to your pet. |