Four-lined tree frog (Polypedates leucomystax)
Photo: Brown R, Siler C, Oliveros C, Welton L, Rock A, Swab J, Van Weerd M, van Beijnen / CC BY 3.0 · via Wikimedia Commons

Amphibian · Tree frog

Four-lined tree frog care guide

Polypedates leucomystax

Beginner

The four-lined tree frog is a beginner-level tree frog from South and Southeast Asia. Adults reach 5–8 cm and live 5–8 years in captivity. A hardy Asian tree frog that builds foam nests above water; small groups.

  • Enclosure 45 × 45 × 60 cm
  • Temp 22–28°C
  • Humidity 70–80%

How much does a four-lined tree frog cost in Canada?

Animal$30–60Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$480–840Enclosure $190–370 · equipment $110–240 · bioactive supplies ≈ $200
Yearly upkeep$100–250Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$610–1150All prices CAD, estimates

Four-lined tree frog quick facts

Skill level
Beginner
Adult size
5–8 cm
Lifespan
5–8 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
South and Southeast Asia
Minimum enclosure
45 × 45 × 60 cm (18 × 18 × 24 in, ≈ 32 US gal)
Housing
Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.
Temperature
22–28°C
Humidity
70–80%
UVB
Recommended
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, roaches, moths
Bioactive style
Tropical arboreal

Four-lined tree frog enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 45 × 45 × 60 cm (18 × 18 × 24 inches). Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal. This species suits a tropical arboreal bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
  3. Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm

Most of the action is vertical – keep the soil moist but not wet, and focus on perches and dense planting.

Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%. UVB: Recommended.

What does a four-lined tree frog eat?

Insectivore – crickets, roaches, moths. Feed adults dusted insects every 2–3 days.

Handling, temperament & health

Jumpy; minimal handling.

Health watch: Skin infections and obesity.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Mist to raise humidity – usually a heavy evening misting with a dry-down by day.
  • Check temperatures at perch height.

Weekly

  • Feed; remove uneaten food (and diet dishes after 24–48 h).
  • Check the drainage layer and prune vines.
  • Look for stuck shed on toes and tails.

Monthly

  • Top up leaf litter.
  • Check branches and mounts are still secure.
  • Clean glass, vents and misting nozzles.

Yearly

  • Refresh the top of the soil in open areas.
  • Replace UVB bulbs (if used) on schedule.

Recommended for a four-lined tree frog bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 45 × 60 cm).

Four-lined tree frog FAQ

Is the four-lined tree frog good for beginners?

Yes – the four-lined tree frog is a good choice for beginners. Jumpy; minimal handling.

What size enclosure does a four-lined tree frog need?

At least 45 × 45 × 60 cm (about 18 × 18 × 24 inches, roughly 32 US gallons) for one adult. Up to 3 can share; add about 40% more floor space for each extra animal.

How much does a four-lined tree frog cost in Canada?

Typically $30–60 CAD to buy, about $480–840 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $100–250 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a four-lined tree frog need?

Temperature: 22–28°C. Humidity: 70–80%.

What does a four-lined tree frog eat?

Insectivore – crickets, roaches, moths. Feed adults dusted insects every 2–3 days.

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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.