Popular Amphibians

We are finally in a day and age where people who wish to keep “obscure� pets can actually find solid, accurate care information about them. And in keeping with the tradition of leading the way in herp literature, Advanced Vivarium Systems has published it’s newest book, “Popular Amphibians.�

Authored by the venerable godfather of herpeteculture, Philippe de Vosjoli, this 120 page book is among his most thorough and broad. In contrast to his species-specific books of yesteryear, this volume covers a wide range of subjects dealing with the care and maintenance of many popular amphibian species.

The book is conveniently structured in a way that beginning or advanced hobbyists can make use of it, although I would imagine it being of most value to those uninitiated to the hobby. The first half or so of the book focuses on general amphibian husbandry. Among these chapters are ones covering selection and quarantine, housing, feeding, acclimation, and water quality. In keeping with his interest in naturalist vivaria, de Vosjoli guides the reader through the construction and design of a few different styles of amphibian vivarium, each well-suited for a variety of species.

The rest of the book covers many of the popular species found in the American herp trade. The emphasis is on more aquatic species, so you will not be overwhelmed with info on dart and tree frogs. However, the species accounts that are included are very thorough, and include data on size, sexing, housing, type of setup, reproduction, feeding, longevity, and more. Basic taxonomic data is included in all species accounts. The section on the ever-popular fire bellied toads may be the highlight of the book, offering concise information on a very hardy frog that is so often improperly kept.

To round out the text, Mr. de Vosjoli has included a chapter on amphibian disease and diagnosis, recommended reading, mixing species, and two very interesting entries on amphibian vivaria in the workplace as educational tools.

I often say I have never met an AVS book that I didn’t like. And after reading this one, the same holds true. Well written, excellent photos, and lots of valuable information. If you have or are considering a frog, newt, or salamander as a pet, then this book is an absolute must. Paper back, 100+ pages with many color photos. Available all the time at LLLreptile.com