Amphibian · Aquatic frog
Surinam toad care guide
Pipa pipa
The surinam toad is a advanced-level aquatic frog from Amazon basin and northern South America. Adults reach 10–17 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Fully aquatic: large water section, soft acidic water. Females carry eggs embedded in their backs.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Water 25–28°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a surinam toad cost in Canada?
Surinam toad quick facts
- Skill level
- Advanced
- Adult size
- 10–17 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Amazon basin and northern South America
- 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
- Water 25–28°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – fish, earthworms, shrimp
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Surinam 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: Water 25–28°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Not needed.
What does a surinam toad eat?
Carnivore – fish, earthworms, shrimp. Feed adults 2–3 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Do not handle.
Health watch: Skin infections in poor 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 surinam 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
Surinam toad FAQ
Is the surinam toad good for beginners?
The surinam toad is an advanced species – best for experienced keepers. Do not handle.
What size enclosure does a surinam 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 surinam toad cost in Canada?
Typically $150–300 CAD to buy, about $470–860 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–250 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a surinam toad need?
Temperature: Water 25–28°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a surinam toad eat?
Carnivore – fish, earthworms, shrimp. Feed adults 2–3 times a week.
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.