Amphibian · Toad
Giant fire-bellied toad care guide
Bombina maxima
The giant fire-bellied toad is a intermediate-level toad from Yunnan, China and northern Vietnam. Adults reach 5–7 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. A larger, warty Bombina; about half water and half planted land.
- Enclosure 60 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 18–24°C
- Humidity 70–80%
How much does a giant fire-bellied toad cost in Canada?
Giant fire-bellied toad quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 5–7 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Yunnan, China and northern Vietnam
- Minimum enclosure
- 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 14 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 18–24°C
- Humidity
- 70–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, roaches, worms
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Giant fire-bellied toad enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (24 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: 18–24°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a giant fire-bellied toad eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, worms. Feed adults dusted insects every 2–3 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Tolerates brief handling; skin secretions sting.
Health watch: Skin infections and obesity.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a giant fire-bellied toad bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (60 × 30 × 30 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Giant fire-bellied toad FAQ
Is the giant fire-bellied toad good for beginners?
The giant fire-bellied toad is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Tolerates brief handling; skin secretions sting.
What size enclosure does a giant fire-bellied toad need?
At least 60 × 30 × 30 cm (about 24 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 14 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a giant fire-bellied toad cost in Canada?
Typically $40–80 CAD to buy, about $290–530 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–200 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a giant fire-bellied toad need?
Temperature: 18–24°C. Humidity: 70–80%.
What does a giant fire-bellied toad eat?
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, worms. Feed adults dusted insects every 2–3 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.