Behavior of Miniature Aquatic Frogs

Frogs come in a variety of colors and sizes, and each type is different. Frogs are not generally low-maintenance pets, but two types of miniature aquatic frogs are ideal for the first-time frog owner. The African dwarf frog is the only truly aquatic miniature frog, but if you have a little dry land in your aquarium you might also consider getting a fire-belled toad. These frogs are hardy and long-lived and behave in ways that can be fun to watch.

  1. African Dwarf Frogs as Pets

    • The African dwarf frog is completely aquatic and grows to a maximum size of about 2 inches. These frogs are social and docile enough to go into an aquarium with nonaggressive fish. They eat frozen bloodworms, brineshrimp and pellet food that's available at pet stores. It's important to keep these frogs warm, around 75 degrees, and to keep a large airspace in the tank so they can breathe.

    African Dwarf Frogs' Behavior

    • African dwarf frogs have poor eyesight and rely on their sense of smell to find food. They usually only eat food that sinks to the bottom of the tank and can often be seen snapping at each other when searching out food. They are fairly active, particularly at night. They swim around a lot and enjoy hiding behind marine foliage. African dwarf frogs have a tendency to float around for long periods of time with arms and legs outstretched and one foot balancing. This is referred to as the "Zen position."

    Fire-Bellied Toads as Pets

    • Fire-bellied toads are a second type of miniature aquatic frog, but they also prefer to spend time slightly out of the water. They grow to a length of 2 inches and have black and bright green backs and black mixed with bright orange stomachs. They depend on movement to hunt for prey, so they should be fed live insects found at a pet store. Fire-bellied toads are toxic and secrete poisons that can make predators sick. The poisons that come from their glands can cause mild to moderate irritations to a human's eyes and face in case of direct and prolonged contact.

    Fire-Bellied Toads' Behaviors

    • Fire-bellied toads are extremely active and tend to run around all the time. They hop, swim and sing, which sounds like a high squeak. This type of frog is not equipped with a tongue that can extend so they use their forearms to push down food they catch by leaping forward and grabbing with their mouths. They prefer privacy and hide behind plants in their habitat. When startled or threatened, these toads arch their backs and show off the bright colors on their bellies. They may also swim to the bottom of the tank and hide underwater.