Defining Characteristics:

• Large toad
• Contrasting black, white, and brown coloration
• Low chirping call
• Breeding aggression

Name: The Japanese Common Toad or Bufo japonicus is named for its country of origin. Interestingly the scientific name was recently changed in 2022 to Bufo praetextatus which had originally been the designated name back in the early 1800s, but the original specimen was lost and a couple decades later, the new name Bufo japonicus was given instead. We will be using Bufo japonicus because it is the name people are most familiar with. Praetextatus was a Roman senator from the 4th century.

Recommended Enclosure Size & Setup: Japanese common toads can become very large and therefore need adequate spacing as adults. A few frogs would need up to a 40 breeder's amount of space or a 36x18x18 Exo Terra tank. Earthy substrate for this species that allows for burrowing is ideal. We recommend Tropical BioBedding, Coco Select, or coco fiber depending on the level of bioactivity you are looking for. A layer of leaf litter should cover the bottom of the tank and humid hides such as cork flats or tubes should be plentiful.

As with all terrestrial anurans a clean water dish should always be accessible. Fake or live plants can be used to accent the enclosure. If choosing live plants the best options are those that are sturdy because these frogs are liable to step on and potentially break plants that are more dainty. 

Temperature (°F): Japanese toads are a bit different than most of the other toad species we work with here at Josh’s Frogs. They are found in more temperate climates and therefore their ideal temperature range is 65-75°, perfect for most homes that are kept at room temperature. Measure temperature with a digital thermometer. 

Humidity: Despite being from a more temperate climate, these toads are still amphibians and humidity levels from 50-70% are still appreciated to avoid the risk of drying out. As a fully terrestrial toad, ensuring that substrate has an adequate moisture content is imperative to keeping these toads happy and healthy. Monitor humidity with a digital hygrometer.

Size: As mentioned above these toads can get very large as adults, with females reaching up to almost 7 inches. Males cap out a bit smaller at closer to 6 inches. At the time of sale, young toadlets will be at least 3/4 of an inch long.

Age: Japanese toads can live over 10 years in captivity with good husbandry practices. Males will reach maturity after about a year and females will reach full maturity after 2. At the time of sale, these toads will be at least 8 weeks old. 

Feeding: As with most frogs, Japanese toads will eat a staple diet of gutloaded crickets or roaches. These can be supplemented with nightcrawlers, hornworms, and the occasional pinky mouse when fully mature. As with other toads, vitamin A is important and should be supplemented with Repashy Vitamin A Plus. 

Sexing: Japanese toads are not immediately visually sexually dimorphic. Males will have nuptial pads and more bulky forearms to aid in amplexus, as well as make a release call when gently pinched under the armpits. Females will be more rotund but this is less reliable than release calls and nuptial pads.

Color/Pattern: Japanese toads are visually striking toads as they are brown dorsally and have a distinct black lateral band that starts just behind the tympanum and ends at the legs. Ventrally they can be anywhere from a creamy white to yellow. Black spots can be present ventrally as well. 

Josh's Frogs does not recommend, support, or endorse line breeding as we believe this leads to weaker captive animals and nature has done a wonderful job of creating an amazing variation in color and pattern of frogs already.

Social Behavior: During mating season, males become extremely aggressive and multiple individuals will try to amplex the same female if few individuals are available. Outside of mating season, these toads tend to be more solitary but can be kept in groups. Because they breed after winter ends, stimulating breeding in captivity may not stimulate male aggression if no cooling period is experienced. 

Breeding: Breeding Japanese toads typically requires a cooling period where they experience temperatures much lower than you would typically provide. Heavy rains and feeding after this period can help to stimulate breeding behavior and spawning for this species.  

Josh's Frogs recommends purchasing multiple frogs if you are interested in breeding them – this greatly increases the chances of getting a pair (male & female).

Natural Range: The Japanese toad is endemic to Japan. 

History in the Hobby: Japanese toads have not been readily available in the US but have a more established captive population overseas. 

Links of Interest:

• Amphibiaweb profile
• Wikipedia
• Japanese folklore related to the Japanese toad

Still not sure if the Japanese Toads from Josh's Frogs are the right pet frog for you? Read the reviews below and see what other customers are saying!