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The Ultimate Guide to the African Dwarf Frog: Care, Diet, and More

Alec Hayes

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The African Dwarf Frog (Hymenochirus boettgeri),also known as the African Clawed Frog, is a small, fully aquatic frog species that's popular in the aquarium trade. Known for its distinctive appearance, ease of care, and playful behavior, the African Dwarf Frog makes an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced aquarium enthusiasts.

AFRICAN DWARF FROG AS PET: GUIDE TO AFRICAN DWARF FROG

by Stashia Jeanette

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Physical Description

African Dwarf Frogs are small frogs, typically reaching a size of around 2-3 inches in length. They have a dark brown or black back with yellow or cream-colored spots, while their undersides are lighter in color.

One of the most characteristic features of the African Dwarf Frog is its webbed feet, which have sharp, black claws. These claws help the frogs grip onto surfaces and are used for hunting and foraging.

An African Dwarf Frog With Its Distinctive Appearance, Including Its Dark Back With Yellow Spots, Webbed Feet, And Sharp Claws AFRICAN DWARF FROG AS PET: GUIDE TO AFRICAN DWARF FROG

Habitat and Care

African Dwarf Frogs are native to sub-Saharan Africa, where they can be found in slow-moving streams, ponds, and swamps. In the aquarium, they require a tank that is at least 5 gallons in size, with a secure lid to prevent escape.

The water temperature should be maintained between 75-82°F (24-28°C),and the pH should be between 6.5-7.5. African Dwarf Frogs prefer soft water, so if the water in your area is hard, you will need to use a water softener.

The tank should be well-planted, with live plants or silk plants that provide hiding places for the frogs. You should also provide a variety of hiding places, such as caves, rocks, and driftwood.

An African Dwarf Frog Tank With Plants, Hiding Places, And A Filter AFRICAN DWARF FROG AS PET: GUIDE TO AFRICAN DWARF FROG — **Figure 2:** An example of a well-maintained African Dwarf Frog tank, featuring live plants, hiding places, and a filter.

Diet

African Dwarf Frogs are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods, including live foods, frozen foods, and prepared foods. Some of their favorite foods include brine shrimp, bloodworms, daphnia, and small insects.

You should feed your African Dwarf Frogs once or twice a day, depending on their age and size. Young frogs will need to be fed more frequently than adult frogs.

Breeding

African Dwarf Frogs are relatively easy to breed in the aquarium. All you need is a male and female frog and a suitable breeding tank. The breeding tank should be at least 10 gallons in size, with a depth of at least 6 inches.

To encourage breeding, you can increase the water temperature to 80°F (27°C) and provide plenty of hiding places. You should also feed the frogs live foods, which will help to stimulate their breeding instincts.

Once the frogs have mated, the female will lay a clutch of eggs. The eggs will hatch within 2-3 days, and the tadpoles will begin to feed on their own within a few days after that.

A Cluster Of African Dwarf Frog Eggs AFRICAN DWARF FROG AS PET: GUIDE TO AFRICAN DWARF FROG

Common Health Issues

African Dwarf Frogs are generally hardy creatures, but they are susceptible to a few common health issues, including:

Skin infections: Skin infections are one of the most common health issues in African Dwarf Frogs. These infections can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor water quality, stress, and injuries.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections are another common health issue in African Dwarf Frogs. These infections can affect a variety of organs, including the skin, lungs, and intestines.
Fungal infections: Fungal infections are less common, but they can be more serious than bacterial infections. Fungal infections can affect a variety of organs, including the skin, lungs, and intestines.

If you think your African Dwarf Frog is sick

AFRICAN DWARF FROG AS PET: GUIDE TO AFRICAN DWARF FROG

by Stashia Jeanette

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