Frogs' legs are considered a delicacy in China, and many special dishes have been worked out to emphasize their delicate flavor. Originally imported from the U.S., bull frogs have been studied intensively in Taiwan over the past 50 years to find out more economical ways of breeding them.
Frogs are shy creatures which prefer to hide in a dark place during the daytime. If they are startled by a sudden movement or noise, they quickly make for the water. Although frogs in more extreme latitudes hibernate, the warm climate in Taiwan enables them to be active all year round.
The familiar "frogs' chorus" of deep booming noises, which give the bull-frog its name, are only heard in the breeding season. In Taiwan, this is between March and August.
Not only is the meat from the legs of the bull-frog delicious, but it is also believed by the Chinese to have medicinal properties. A stew made from it is said to be a tonic, and an appetizer for children. Its low fat content makes it ideal for dieters.
Raising bull-frogs is a tiring business, but the profits make it worthwhile. A farmer who is willing to convert his land into a series of lily ponds can earn as much as US$25,000 a year.
This success in frog-breeding did not come easily, however. At first, the bull-frogs could not adapt to the environment in Taiwan, and farmers did not know how to raise them. Eventually, the Taiwan Bull-frog Raising Association was formed to carry out research into the amphibian and its habitat. After 50 years of research, Taiwan can now export frog products to the other great consumer, France. As more and more people in Taiwan are taking to this delicacy, the raising of bull-frogs has become an important source of supplementary income for farmers on the island.
[Picture Caption]
1. A large bull-frog weighing as much as 2 lbs has a copious meat yield. Frogs are shy, and prefer to live in a cool, damp place. 2. This is a simple breeding area located in Pingtung. The farmer must be careful to keep the pond clean and filled with water. 3. Pond for spawning. 4. These tadpoles are much larger than those of ordinary frogs.
Meat of frogs' legs used in this casserole is said to resemble chicken.
This is a simple breeding area located in Pingtung. The farmer must be careful to keep the pond clean and filled with water.
These tadpoles are much larger than those of ordinary frogs.
Meat of frogs' legs used in this casserole is said to resemble chicken.
Packaging for men's hair beauty aids stresses color and attractive appearance.
@List.jpg?w=522&h=410&mode=crop&format=webp&quality=80)
@List.jpg?w=522&h=410&mode=crop&format=webp&quality=80)