Description: 5 species are known with the Red-banded rubber frog, Phrynomantis bifasciatus, being the most commonly available followed by the Tomato rubber frog, Phrynomantis microps. The care requirements for these two species are known to be similar but little information is available for the other three. These hardy, mostly nocturnal frogs are found in a wide range of habitats in subtropical and tropical southern Africa. Their shiny skin is light sensitive and the red and black colors will brighten or fade according to how much light is being received. The body is fat and overall pear shaped with a distinct neck, which allows them to turn their head. The tongue can be aimed to the side and even slightly to the rear when capturing prey. They have adhesive toe pads and are good climbers but P. microps seems to prefer staying on the ground, while P. bifasciatu, are more arborial. They do not hop or jump like most frogs do but "walk" instead. Large quantities of toxic skin secretions can be produced to ward off predators. Do not keep other frog species with them and use caution when handling to avoid skin irritation. The maximum adult size is around 2" to 3", with P. microps being the smaller of the two species. Can live for 10 years or more. In the wild, ants and termites seem to be their main diet.

Temperature: Daytime 75° to 85°F with about 5° to 10°F drop at night. A temperature gradient throughout the enclosure is preferred.

Humidity: Moderate to high, approximately 50% to 70% is good.

Lighting: Plant grow lights are necessary for the live plants in a savanna forest or jungle habitat, use a timer to simulate the tropics, 12 hours on / 12 hours off. Seasonal day length fluctuations are not needed but can help to stimulate breeding. A dim night light is required for viewing nocturnal activities.

Feeding: Very small crickets are fine as a staple diet but a variety of other small insects should be offered. A good vitamin/mineral supplement should be given twice a week for adults and more often for young, growing frogs.

A shallow bowl of clean water should be available at all times.

Habitat: A 10-gallon tank with a cover is sufficient for 1 or 2 frogs. Set it up as a planted tropical savanna forest or jungle vivarium with plenty of ground level hiding places to help them feel secure. Although they need humidity, good ventilation is still needed.

Estivation: Simulating an alternating wet and dry season is helpful. During dry periods, they will burrow underground or find other moist places to shelter in.

Sexing: Males are usually smaller and may have a dark throat. The call is a short and loud, shrill melodious whistle.

Breeding: After a rainstorm that signals the start of this early breeders' mating season, large choruses of males will gather at the shore or in the shallow water of temporary pools. 600 to 1500 eggs can be produced, laid in masses attached to floating plants or left on the bottom and hatch in about 4 days. The weird, mostly transparent, fish-like tadpoles are filter-feeders that strain out algae and other microorganisms while hanging head up and motionless in mid-water. They can move quickly when necessary. An infusoria culture or other source of micro-organisms is needed to supply the tads with food. Metamorphosis occurs in about a month. The froglets need tiny insects at first.

ENJOY YOUR PET LIFE FORMS, Dave & Donna