Maintenance of bombina species of frogs

Abstract

Of the four common species of Bombina frogs (B. orientalis, B. bombina, B. variegata, and B. maxima), the Oriental fire-bellied toad (B. orientalis) is the most commonly kept and bred species. Bombina frogs have specialized glands in their skin that secrete a toxin which can cause irritation to other animals either ingesting or otherwise coming into contact with the frogs. Care should be taken when handling these frogs, and handling of the frogs should be kept to a minimum. Enclosures indoors can be simple or complex in nature. It is possible to keep these species outdoors in temperate parts of the United States, although a winter hibernation (brumation) period is necessary. Bombina species are easy to care for, demonstrate few health problems, and can live up to twenty years in captivity.