DISEASES OF LABORATORY AMPHIBIANS

Laboratory amphibians include leopard frogs, African clawed toads and marine toads.
Not much is known about this class of animal. They are important especially in some schools where they are extensively employed in studying or teaching biology. Good husbandry and adequate feeding are recommended. It is our duty to observe their diseases and document them for future generation study.

RED LEG DISEASE

This is a bacterial disease found in malnourished amphibians.
Etiology
It is caused by Aeromonas hydrophila. It is a facultative organism but under poor condition lead to clinical signs. Clinical signs are lethargy, weight loss, ulcers on skin, nose and toes, pinpoint haemorrhages on legs, abdominal tissues and nictitating membrane of the eyes. These clinical signs and lesions are characteristic.
Post-mortem lesions
There are haemorrhages of skeletal muscles, tongue and nictitating membrane.

Histopathology
There are necrotic foci on liver and spleen.
Treatment
Give oxytetracycline 150mg/kg 2 times a day OR  chloramphenicol 50mg/kg 2 times daily given in water by stomach intubation.
Group treatment is achieved by keeping the toads in holding tanks containing oxytetracycline at the rate of 1mg/kg.
RICKETS
Feed laboratory amphibians with live foods such as earthworm or cricket to prevent rickets.