African Dwarf Frogs, also known as Dwarf Clawed Frogs, are curious and playful additions for freshwater pet enthusiasts. These easy-to-care-for aquatic frogs have a tone between deep green to muddy brown with brown/black spots. As masters of camouflage, you'll enjoy playing spot-the-frog with this cute, small creature in your home aquarium.
The Story Behind African Dwarf Frogs
The African Dwarf Frog is native to parts of
Equatorial Africa, where they live in ponds and shallow rivers. They are commonly mistaken for the
African Clawed Frog, which has more pointed digits on its front feet, unlike the African Dwarf's webbed feet. The African Dwarf has been a popular aquatic pet since the 1970s.
African Dwarf Frogs have an energetic and quirky character and rarely sit still. The exception is when they take on a zen-like pose while floating. This action is called "burbling," when your frog spreads its limbs and floats on the water. They usually do this when they want a few breaths of air, as African Dwarf Frogs have a full set of lungs instead of gills.
African Dwarf Frogs make great tank mates with other tiny creatures. They are generally peaceful companions to water snails or fish of the same size (about 1.5-3 inches in length). You can also pair them with other African Dwarf Frogs.
Caring for Your Dwarf-Clawed Frog
African Dwarf Frogs are generally low maintenance.
Some tips to remember, though, are that it's best to avoid removing them from their tank. If you must remove them, keep it short—no more than five minutes. They cannot survive out of water and will become dehydrated. African Dwarfs also have delicate bodies, so they should not be handled by small children or bare hands in general.
Other than these rules about handling, caring for an African Dwarf Frog is simple.
Habitat - Tank Setup
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Water temperature - 75–82 °F
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pH level – 6.5 and 7.8 (Purchase a test kit for your pet care)
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Tank size – Between three and five gallons of high-quality water per frog, not deeper than 12 inches.
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Decorations - live plants, hiding places, rocks, wood
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Substrate - medium-sized gravel that's too large for them to swallow
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Lighting - enough for 10-12 hours a day
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Filtration - gentle currents are best
Food
African Dwarf Frogs are omnivores and enjoy a diet of meat and plants. The most suitable diet for your frog consists of high-protein foods like fish fry, bloodworms, carnivorous freshwater fish food pellets, tadpole pellets, small earthworms, or shrimp brine. Most frogs only need to be fed every two-to-three days. Any leftover food should be removed from the tank.
A Rewarding Pet for Frog Lovers
For hobbyists who love an entertaining and active pet, the African Dwarf Frog is a great choice, especially for those who prefer aquatic pets. With proper care, feeding and shelter, your African Dwarf can live for up to five years.
Ask our knowledgeable
Pets on Broadway staff for more froggy information on how to maintain your tank and care for your frog. We have all the right food and supplies to keep your aquatic reptile happy and thriving!
