Dwarf Frogs

There are two species of dwarf frogs, scientifically known as ‘hymenochirus curtipes’ and ‘hymenochirus boettgeri’. Dwarf frogs are native to Africa but they are kept in captivity also. They are more easily available at aquarium stores rather than the reptile or amphibian departments of pet stores.

These frogs are much smaller than their clawed frog cousins. The hymenochirus curtipes has big, smooth tubercles on the sides of the thighs and have short legs. The hymenochirus boettgeri is longer-legged with tubercles of different sizes standing out on the sides of their thighs. Both types of frogs have flattened heads and bodies. The hind feet are broad and webbed and have tiny claw like things on them. Though flattened, the hind limbs are strong. The forelimbs of dwarf frogs are weak though the feet are fully webbed.

The colors vary from olive green to brownish green. The skin on the back of these frogs is not smooth and it is sprinkled with darker spots. This lets the frogs merge with the environment making it difficult to spot them. These frogs also have the ability to lighten or darken their skin color according to their environment.

They have small eyes and their vision seems to be dorsally directed and weak.

The hymenochirus curtipes may be kept in community tanks. Aquarium lovers often purchase them because of their oddity. This is perfectly fine as long as the fishes are too small to eat these frogs. The dwarf frogs are omnivores and their diet includes worms like bloodworms, black worms and earthworms. Since they are bottom feeders, they eat any sinking food. They forage for food primarily by scent and occasionally by touch. They are hearty eaters and are active throughout the year.

The slippery skin and small size of the dwarf frogs makes it a bit difficult to hold them by hand and a wet net should be used.

Dwarf frogs are entirely aquatic but they have lungs and they can rise almost to the water surface to take in breaths of air. This water must be free of chemicals and clean. A planted or non-planted aquarium suffices for them. If, using a planted aquarium, only plants which have strong roots should be used and the temperature of the water should be around 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The tank should have a secure cover to prevent escape and should provide plenty of hiding places for the frogs. Dwarf frogs should not be kept in distilled water. Tap water is best suited for these species. They are tropical and sub-tropical beings.
.

• Login or register to post comments