Amphibian · Toad
Giant river toad care guide
Phrynoidis asper
The giant river toad is a intermediate-level toad from Southeast Asia: Myanmar to Borneo and Java. Adults reach 10–20 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. A streamside toad: half land, half clean water with good filtration.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp 23–28°C
- Humidity 70–90%
How much does a giant river toad cost in Canada?
Giant river toad quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 10–20 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Southeast Asia: Myanmar to Borneo and Java
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- 23–28°C
- Humidity
- 70–90%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets, fish
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Giant river toad enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 inches). Up to 2 can share; add about 50% 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: 23–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a giant river toad eat?
Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets, fish. Feed adults every 3–5 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Hands-off; toxic secretions.
Health watch: Bacterial infections in stale water.
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 river toad bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 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 river toad FAQ
Is the giant river toad good for beginners?
The giant river toad is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Hands-off; toxic secretions.
What size enclosure does a giant river toad need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 2 can share; add about 50% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a giant river toad cost in Canada?
Typically $50–100 CAD to buy, about $470–860 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a giant river toad need?
Temperature: 23–28°C. Humidity: 70–90%.
What does a giant river toad eat?
Carnivore – roaches, earthworms, crickets, fish. Feed adults every 3–5 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.