Scientific Name: Megophrys nasuta.
Common Names: Asian Horned Frog, Asian Spadefoot Toad.
Distribution: Borneo, Indonesia, Kalimantan, Malayan Peninsula, Philippines, & Thailand.
Size: 9-16cm.
Sexing: Males are almost half the size of females and may be heard making a “cock” call.
Colouration: The dorsal surface is variegated light to dark brown.
Requirements: These rather unusual and beautiful frogs require only a large terrarium. A 22 gallon tank would be adequate for 2-4 adults. They require a semi aquatic set-up with a deep substrate of loose sandy soil. Furnishings such as driftwood, cork bark, and sturdy leafed plants can be arranged to provide a number of hiding places. A large water area must be provided with clean de-chlorinated or spring water at a depth of 8cm. If kept in a warm household the tank will not require additional heating. A light source may be provided by the means of a fluorescent UVB tube although this is not strictly necessary.
Maintenance: Water will need changing daily to avoid the build up of ammonia and bacteria. Whilst changing the water it is a good idea to spot clean the tank and remove, clean, and replace any soiled items. At least once a month the entire terrarium and it's contents should be striped, cleaned, and sterilized using an amphibian friendly disinfectant.
Feeding: For adults a mixture of suitably sized insects including crickets, caterpillars, slugs, wax worm and earthworm should be fed every two-three days. A calcium and vitamin supplement should be used once a week. Young toads will take hatchling crickets, aphids, & fruitflies. These should be fed every day and a calcium and vitamin supplement used two-three times a week.
