The Primorsky Aquarium has recently welcomed a new species of tomato frog, the false, or Sambava tomato frog (Dyscophus guineti), in the Tropical Rain Forest Exhibit. The species belongs to the family Microhylidae, commonly known as narrow-mouthed frogs, and is native to Madagascar, specifically the northeastern part of the island.
Dyscophus guineti gains its name due to the bright red coloration of its skin, which warns predators that it is not the tastiest food. When a predator grabs a tomato frog in its mouth, the frog's skin secretes a white toxic substance that sticks the predator's jaws together and can cause allergic reactions in humans. If threatened, the amphibian can also blow up like a balloon.
Tomato frogs prefer lowland tropical and subtropical rain forests and swamps and are found up to about 900 m above sea level. Arthropods, especially insects, are the most common food for them. Tomato frogs do not move about, they are ambush predators and hunt at night.
Mating season for tomato frogs is right after the rainy season. Male frogs attract females by producing loud calls. Breeding occurs at pools, swamps or shallow ponds.