The first and most important thing you'll need is a tank. The size of the tank depends on the number of toads you're going to house. For my toad, I'm going to use a 10-gallon. After I have set up my tank, I plan to add another toad for Palei to hang out with.

Another essential element is the tank lid. I've heard stories and stories of convict froggies that manage to escape from their homes. Apparently, you never know how small of a space your little critter can can squeeze through. Anyway, the bottom line is: Make sure your lid is secure. Firebellies are notorious for their determination, so make sure there are no holes big enough for them to crawl through, either.

Also, it's a good idea to get an aquarium lid with a space for a light with a clear window (to protect your toads from jumping into the bulb) and a pretty sturdy hinged lid in the front. You'll be adding a light later. :)

Well, of course you'll need a place to put your tank. There are two kinds of tank stands: wrought-iron and wood. There are also pros and cons to each of these.

I myself prefer a wood one, but I also have a carpenter for a father, so it all depends on your budget and your personality.

Depending on the cover you get, you may not have to buy a flourescent lamp. If you buy a lid without a space for a light, you'll need to buy a light with a cover to fit with it. The reason for the cover on the lamp, as I said before, is to prevent your toad from jumping into a bare light bulb.

The temperature of your vivarium is another important factor. Even if you don't have a heater for your tank, it's a good idea to have 2 of these adhesive thermometers to monitor the temperature of the tank just in case. It's recommended to buy 2 of these so you can monitor the temp. of the air and water of the tank. Place one near the bottom underneath the water level, and place the other between the water level and the top of the tank.

If you'd rather that the thermometers be inconspicuous, you can stick them on the side of the tank and out of view.

Yet another important factor is the submersible water pump/filter. A pump with a GPH of 4-6 times the amount of water in the tank is most preferred. For instance, if you had a 10-gallon tank, you will most likely use about 3 gallons of water or more. So, 3x6=18 GPH.

But, if you're planning on making a waterfall or fountain to make your vivarium more asthetically pleasing, you'll need some extra GPH, airline tubing to fit your pump, and something to hide your pump behind such as rocks, plants or driftwood. Making a fountain, waterfall, etc. for your toads' home is not only pleasing to you, but your toads will enjoy it as well!

Well, this odd-looking little device is a heater. Firebellied toads can survive at regular room temperature, but to prevent any sudden temperature swings from disrupting your toads' environment, a heater is recommended. There are two types of heaters that are used for aquariums and terrariums: "hang-ons" and submersible heaters. The type of heater you'll need is a submersible heater. A rule of thumb when purchasing a heater: 5 watts for every gallon your tank holds.

When you install your heater, it's best to install it on the opposite side to your water filter to allow full distribution of the heated water. To secure your heater, use the suction cups provided with it and remember to consult your owner's manual.

And, of course, clean water is another issue that is stressed all the time. The water for your firebellies must be clean of all impurities. The easiest way (and cheapest, too) is to purchase dechlorination drops. This is an easy item to find because it's available at all pet stores. Most of the dechlorination solutions require you to add 1 drop per gallon of water and to allow the water to sit and become "stale" for 24 hours.

If you'd rather not go through the trouble, you could also buy a few gallons of spring water for your tank instead.

Well, here's an item that no aquarium or terrarium can do without: gravel. Use only the gravel available at your pet store. Also, be sure to rinse it off before use. Gravel from garden stores or hardware stores is unnecessary because of the toxins and bacteria that are unremovable.

I've heard that sometimes, for some unknown reasons, firebellies actually swallow the gravel by accident. So, it's necessary to purchase gravel that is small enough to be, well, passed. :)

To create a more home-like environment for your toad, rocks are a good way to start. If it's possible, you may be able to find rocks from your pet store. You'll need to get somewhat smooth rocks because when firebellies land, they flop, so you want to make sure their landing is a soft one.

If your shop for rocks at the pet store is unsuccessful, you can try to find smooth rocks or river rocks from outdoors. The only thing you need to do is clean your rocks from outdoors. To do this, you'll need to make a solution of 1 tbsp of bleach and 2 cups of water and soak your rocks overnight. Then, with a toothbrush, try to get rid of any extra grime. Afterwards, rinse very thoroughly. You could re-soak them again if you want, but without the bleach. Then rinse them again. If you do not rinse the rocks properly, it could result in sick or otherwise dead froggies!

To create land areas for your toads, you can use flat, wide rocks for them to rest on. These will also be used for feeding.

To create the waterfall effect with your rocks, you'll need some fairly large, smooth rocks stacked on top of one another. You could also substitute driftwood if you'd like. An attractive way to make a fountain arrangement would be to take the airline tubing and loop it under the water and up to the surface with rocks surrounding the tube to hold it in place (see picture below if it's understandable :P).

Live plants add a touch of nature to a vivarium. Most people use them to beautify their tanks. The good things about adding plants to the tank are: they're inexpensive, they're attractive, they're easy to care for, they provide your toads with a place to hide, and they reduce wastes. Firebellies use the plants to hang out in, for breeding, and to relax.

Most plants can survive by floating around in the water. It is suggested that you clean the roots of all the soil and extra things before placing in the tank. I am planning on taking clippings from my plants and putting them in cups of water to develop roots before putting them in my tank rather than putting the whole plant in the tank. I am also planning on putting moss in the tank for the plants to root in, but it's not required to do.

For a list of safe plants to use in your vivarium, click here.