Bullfrog Tadpole (Lithobates catesbeianus)

Bullfrog tadpoles take their time — where most frog species wrap up metamorphosis in a matter of weeks, Lithobates catesbeianus can spend one to three years as a tadpole depending on water temperature, grazing algae and detritus the whole way through before finally growing legs and losing that tail. It's the largest frog native to North America, and the tadpole gives away the endgame early: expect a genuinely big amphibian with the deep, resonant call that gave the species its name. Best suited to an outdoor pond with room to grow rather than a permanent indoor tank.

Care level: Easy · Temperament: Peaceful, herbivorous grazer · Max size: Adult frog ~6-8" · Min habitat: Outdoor pond · Diet: Herbivore/detritivore as tadpole, carnivore as adult