Amphibian · Aquatic frog
African dwarf frog care guide
Hymenochirus boettgeri
The african dwarf frog is a beginner-level aquatic frog from Central Africa: Congo basin. Adults reach 3–4 cm and live 5–8 years in captivity. Fully aquatic: a large water section, gentle filter and no land. Often confused with clawed frogs.
- Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp Water 24–27°C
- Humidity Not critical (aquatic)
How much does a african dwarf frog cost in Canada?
African dwarf frog quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- 3–4 cm
- Lifespan
- 5–8 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Central Africa: Congo basin
- Minimum enclosure
- 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
- Housing
- Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.
- Temperature
- Water 24–27°C
- Humidity
- Not critical (aquatic)
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
African dwarf frog enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Water 24–27°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic). UVB: Not needed.
What does a african dwarf frog eat?
Carnivore – frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets. Feed small amounts every 1–2 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Do not handle.
Health watch: Chytrid, bloat and starvation when kept with fast fish.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a african dwarf frog bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
African dwarf frog FAQ
Is the african dwarf frog good for beginners?
Yes – the african dwarf frog is a good choice for beginners. Do not handle.
What size enclosure does a african dwarf frog need?
At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 4 can share; add about 30% more floor space for each extra animal.
How much does a african dwarf frog cost in Canada?
Typically $10–20 CAD to buy, about $270–490 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $50–120 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a african dwarf frog need?
Temperature: Water 24–27°C. Humidity: Not critical (aquatic).
What does a african dwarf frog eat?
Carnivore – frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets. Feed small amounts every 1–2 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.