How to Eradicate Tadpoles
In normal numbers, frogs are a welcome part of many habitats and ecosystems, from the sensitive riparian areas to your backyard pond. However, there often comes a time when you have to consider extreme population control when the frog in question is a nonnative invasive species. It's not enough to get rid of the adults; you have to get rid of the tadpoles too. Mechanical means of tadpole removal, compared with the introduction of a species that preys on tadpoles, is less likely to throw the ecosystem out of balance and is therefore the stronger approach. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Net, butterfly or large aquarium fish net
- Bucket
- Herbicide (glyphosate), (optional)
Instructions
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1
Locate the tadpole-inhabited areas. Watery areas where you have heard or seen frogs will likely contain tadpoles. Tadpoles will typically inhabit shallow waters that don't have strong currents and offer a reasonable amount of protection from predators.
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2
Use the net to scoop out the tadpoles and deposit them into your bucket. You don't need to put water in the bucket as your goal is to kill the tadpoles.
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3
Kill the tadpoles by adding herbicide to your bucket or by allowing the tadpoles to dehydrate in the bucket. Alternatively, you may deposit the tadpoles onto a hot rock in order to kill them.
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4
Repeat steps one through three to make sure that the tadpoles are thoroughly eradicated.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Eliminating frog eggs will also ensure the elimination of tadpoles. Typically frogs will lay hundreds to thousands of eggs in a gelatinous mass that can easily be scooped out by net or by hand. Look for egg clutches in calm waters where they can develop undisturbed. They can be near or under rocks, or in plant material.
If you opt to use chemicals, handle them carefully so you don't poison yourself or unintentionally kill plants or animals with the pesticide.
