Description
Green – £39.99
Blue – £79.99
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Oriental fire-bellied toads are the most easily recognizable species of Bombina. They are typically a bright colored green with black mottling, but their coat can may also darken to brown and even black depending on the scenery presented. Like other forms of Bombina, Bombina Orientalis have a bright yellow to red ventral region. The skin on their dorsal side is covered in small tubercles. Although it is typically referred to as a toad, the Fire-Bellied Toad is not a member of the toad family (Bufonidae.) As such, it may properly be referred to as a frog.
In the wild, B. orientalis eat various types of small aquatic arthropods (among other things) from which they obtain Carotene, which helps to color their bellies. In captivity, providing a source of Beta-Carotene (such as carrots) to the prey insects (crickets) early in a frog’s adult stage allows it to develop brighter coloration. Its fecal matter is also a very bright blue color.
Like other Bombina species, B. orientalis is mostly aquatic, inhabiting warm, humid forested regions. They spend most of their time soaking in shallow pools, among dense vegetation.
When kept in captivity, it is important to provide adequate hiding places as Bombina Orientalis need to feel a sense of security. They tend to spend the majority of their time basking in neck-level dechlorinated water (if they don’t completely immerse themselves.)
They are noted for their bright green and black coloration on their backs, and brilliant orange and black on their underside. These bright colors serve as a warning to predators (as in “I’m toxic!”). While not the most toxic of amphibians, regular handling is not recommended (avoid if there are cuts on your hands) and your hands should always be washed thoroughly immediately after touching the frog (or cleaning the tank for that matter).
