About: The pixie frog, also known as the African edible bullfrog, is a large species of frog native to Southern, Central, and Eastern Africa. Adult male pixie frogs usually grow to about 8-10 inches, while females grow to about 4-6 inches. In captivity, pixie frogs live about 20-30 years in captivity, or sometimes longer with ideal care.
Lighting: Pixie frogs need a warm side of the tank to be around 75-80°F and a cool side of around 70°F. A temperature gradient can be created by placing a heat source on one far side of the tank. It is important to never let the daytime temperature fall below 65°F, as it can cause illness or death.
UVB is a type of light that is produced from the sun, and will help process calcium, help make stronger bones and give vitamins that the sun would normally give. Pixie frogs are active during the night, so they don’t need the same UVB requirements other amphibians or reptiles need. It is still highly recommended, and can greatly improve their health, but it is not required for survival.
Tank: Pixie frogs aren’t very active, but due to their large size, they need a big tank. A 40 gallon tank is usually the minimum tank size for larger males, while smaller females can go in a 20 gallon long tank minimum. Having a bigger tank is always recommended though, because it can add extra room to explore, hide, and add comfort and safety to a frog’s habitat.
Pixie frogs like to hide and burrow in the dirt, so you should have at least 4-6 inches of substrate in the tank. Pixie frogs require a humidity of around 60-80%, so having a substrate that can hold moisture well is highly beneficial. Usually a mix of coconut coir, dirt and moss will help keep the humidity high, along with misting the tank every other day.
Feeding and Watering: Pixie frogs are nocturnal carnivores that hunt by hiding in the dirt and popping out whenever food passes them. They can eat any gut loaded (recently fed) insect, like crickets, dubia roaches or earth worms. Their food should also be lightly dusted in calcium powder to help prevent bone diseases. Baby and juvenile pixie frogs should be fed daily, and adult pixie frogs should eat 2-3 times a week.
Because frogs drink through their skin, they should have a water bowl that is big enough for them to fully climb into. Water bowls should be changed daily, to keep your frog clean and healthy.
Pixie Frog Supplies Checklist
- Tank (20-40 gallons minimum)
- Screen lid
- Lid clamps
- Foliage
- Water bowl
- Thermometer
- Hydrometer
- Heat bulb
- UVB
- Mister
- Substrate
- Moss
- Tongs
- Critter keeper
- Calcium
Have More Questions? Call the Experts at Moby Dick Pet Store at (248) 673-2520
