African Dwarf Frog

Author: The ReptilesWeb.com Editor

Last Updated:

African Dwarf Frog

Scientific Name

  • The scientific name of the African Dwarf Frog is Hymenochirus boettgeri

Description

  • It is also known as a dwarf aquatic frog.
  • This frog is highly recommended for beginner frog pet enthusiasts.
  • They are fully aquatic and occasionally breathe at the water’s surface.

Distribution

  • Central Africa, Nigeria, and Cameroon.

Breeding

  • The male frogs will perform a “calling dance” to attract the female frog when they are ready to mate.
  • If the female frog is ready, the male frog will grab her from behind.
  • She will swim to the surface and lay eggs.
  • Male frogs will then fertilize them outside the body.

Nesting

  • Eggs are round in shape.
  • After fertilization, one side of the egg is white, and one side is brown.

Size

  • Average 1.5 inch

Life Span

  • Average 7 years, up to 15 years max.

African Dwarf Frog Diet and Feeding

  • Small fish meat, worms, larvae, and tiny insects.
  • In captivity, frozen bloodworms, frozen brine shrimp, or dried brine shrimp.
  • Feeding is done every 2 to 3 days.

Habitat and Aquarium Setup

  • Clean, fresh water, no chlorine (water from the tap, and leave it for at least 2 days or use anti-chlorine).
  • If there are other species, such as goldfish, that are kept in the same tank and get affected by the disease, immediately remove their dead bodies and clean the tank thoroughly.
  • Recommended 1 frog per 1-gallon aquarium.
  • Ideally, the pH for the frog ranges from 7.0 to 7.2.
  • Make sure the temperature is between 74°F to 80°F.

Shedding

  • This frog sheds its skin every 2 weeks.