CHAPTER XIII. 
TONGUELESS FROGS. 
HE Smooth Spur-toed Frog ( Xenopus levis) is a member of 
the sub-order Aglossa, or Tongueless Frogs. This sub- 
order numbers only two families and four species 
altogether. 
Though the Smooth-clawed Frog is almost entirely aquatic, it 
is a suitable inmate of a properly-constructed Vivarium, as it is 
hardy, easily fed, and will breed freely while in captivity. It 
soon becomes tame. Unlike other Frogs, it will readily eat 
pieces of raw meat, after which it will dive, and seize them with 
its slender and sharply-pointed fingers. During the months of 
July and August it deposits its large eggs singly among the 
aquatic plants. 
The tadpole comes into the world without external gills, but 
is provided with two spiracula, one on each side of the body, and 
in about three days after its birth develops a pair of long barbels, 
one at either corner of the mouth. The tadpole is very large in 
comparison to the size of its parent. 
As soon as the eggs have been deposited, they should be re- 
moved to an aquarium containing water of the same temperature 
as that of the tank from which they have been taken. Neither 
the eggs nor the tadpoles would be safe in the company of the 
old Frogs. 
