Although today we are well aware of the diversity of frogdom, we still thoroughly enjoy watching the development of a tadpole. Most current field guides help you to identify at least a few of these difficult little creatures. Such a key was one of the noteworthy additions to the latest edition of the Peterson Field guide series entitled Reptiles and Amphibians, Eastern/ Central north America by Roger Conant and Joseph T. Collins. Although this is true, tadpoles remain difficult to identify.

Hatching and rearing

Tadpoles are not difficult to hatch and rear. The critical factor is the water in which they are raised. Most common forms will succumb to, or be deformed by, acidic water conditions. In some areas that are very prone to acidification of water, this human-made phenomenon, either singly or in combination with other, less-understood, atmospheric alterations, has caused the virtual disappearance of the once common specie of frogs, toads, and tree frogs. Other, less common species are on the verge of extinction. Because of this and a heightened awareness of the benefits afforded our planet by the tailless amphibians, many kinds of frogs, toads, and tree frogs are now granted at state or federal levels or both. Check with applicable state laws before collecting any specimens. Although most tadpoles are compatible if well fed, those of many species will become cannibalistic if perpetually hungry or crowded.

Filtration

Since filtration does much to cover many smaller mistakes and oversights, we feel that it is an important addition to the tadpole aquarium. Heed this with one word of caution. For several days after hatching, tadpoles are weak swimmers. Tailor and pumps and filters accordingly if they are too strong, your tadpoles may be carried into or against the filter or intake and then be injured or killed.

How many tadpoles?

Today, many tadpoles are kept communally, many seem to do better if isolated - one or two per container. When small numbers of small species are involved, the hatchlings can be contained from hatching to metamorphosis, in a Styrofoam cup. Manual cleaning is necessary at two day intervals. When larger numbers of tadpoles are involved, it may become necessary or desirable to have an automated system that allows the water to flow through many cups simultaneously. A recirculation system seems ideal and an inline filtration system is essential. A plastic blanket box or some other easily cleaned, durable container can be used as the main reservoir. In and out water lines can be cemented in place. The water will need to be changed every two or three days, at which time the entire system should be scrubbed, sterilized, and refilled. The communal rearing of large numbers of tadpoles, whatever the species is the easiest method but will require a large volume of water. A children’s wading pool, can accommodate such a volume and is inexpensive to boot. Depending on the size of the pool as well as the size and number of tadpoles involved, one partial, and one complete water change a week may be necessary for the entire developmental time span. The quality of your water will determine the frequency and degree of changes. A good filtration will help decrease the amount of care necessary.

Feeding

Besides algae, many tadpoles will eat such animal matter as blood, black and white worms, finely chopped earthworms, an- in a pinch- very finely chopped raw beef heart. Uneaten food should be removed within a few hours, as putrefied food will affect water quality. The tadpoles of some species are plankton feeders. With ample water quality, and proper feeding, tadpoles of many frog species will be metamorphosed in four to six weeks after hatching. Some may take longer, especially at cool temperatures. Some like the tadpoles of the Malayan painted frog may metamorphose in only two weeks. The rising of tadpoles can be a watch, learn, and enjoy project for all!