Developed with and approved by a qualified veterinarian.
This care sheet covers a variety of freshwater amphibian species, including:
Scientific names: Hymenochirus curtipes, Xenopus laevis, Cynops, Rana catesbeiana, Ambystoma mexicanum
Fully aquatic amphibians are very comfortable in the aquarium and never need to leave the water. African dwarf frogs stay small and typically can be kept in an aquarium with community fish. Tadpoles will eventually transform into a terrestrial frog, depending on species. Check the terrestrial frog care sheet for proper frog care. Newts are primarily aquatic but will need a small, dry area to come out of the water. Axolotls are a type of salamander that prefer spending time on the bottom of the aquarium and should not be housed with other fish due to their tendency to consume smaller prey.
Care Difficulty | Beginner to intermediate, depending on species |
Average Life Span | Depends on species |
Average Adult Size | Depends on species |
Diet | Omnivore |
Minimum Habitat Size | 5+ gallons |
Water Temperature | 72-82°F |
Keep freshwater amphibians in an appropriate size aquarium. A minimum of 5 gallons, depending on the adult size of the species, is recommended.
Décor - Provide plenty of rocks and plants for hiding places and a secure lid to prevent jumping
A well-balanced freshwater amphibian diet consists of:
Things to remember when feeding your freshwater amphibian:
Maintaining great water quality with regular water changes and adequate filtration is important to help keep your freshwater amphibians healthy
Avoid overcrowded conditions, which are a major cause of stress and disease
Various amphibians are available for purchase at your local Petco Pet Care Center location; availability varies by location. Please call ahead to check availability.
Some amphibians can eat smaller fish; do not keep with fish smaller than their mouth
Health Issue | Symptoms or Causes | Suggested Action |
---|---|---|
Health IssueBacterial infection | Symptoms or CausesCloudy eyes, open sores, and/or reddening of the skin. | Suggested ActionImprove water quality and consult your local aquatic specialist or aquatic veterinarian for treatment. |
Health IssueFungal Infection | Symptoms or CausesRed inflammation of the skin, or any other abnormal change in skin color. | Suggested ActionQuarantine freshwater amphibian immediately; consult your local aquatic specialist or aquatic veterinarian for advice. |
Ask a Pet Care Center store employee about Petco's selection of products available for the care and happiness of your new pet. All products carry a 100% money-back guarantee.
Because all aquatic life are potential carriers of infectious diseases, such as atypical mycobacterium and salmonella, always wash your hands before and after handling your aquatic life and/or habitat contents to help prevent the potential spread of diseases.
Pregnant women, children under the age of 5, senior citizens and people with weakened immune systems should contact their physician before purchasing and/or caring for aquatic life and should consider not having aquatic life as a pet.
Go to the Centers for Disease Control at cdc.gov/healthypets for more information about aquatic life and disease.
The information on this Care Sheet is not a substitute for veterinary care. If you need additional information, please contact your veterinarian as appropriate.
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