Western Clawed Frog
A smaller clawed frog used widely in research, fully aquatic and easy to keep.
Overview
Western Clawed Frog (Xenopus tropicalis) is a aquatic frog native to West Africa. A smaller clawed frog used widely in research, fully aquatic and easy to keep.
Care level: Beginner. Toxicity: Low.
History & Origin
The Pipidae (Aquatic Frogs) is naturally distributed across West Africa, where it occupies the typical habitats of its family. It has been kept by specialist and hobbyist keepers both in the wild and in captivity.
Appearance & Size
Western Clawed Frog is a 4–5 cm aquatic frog.
Temperament
Aquatic frogs are almost entirely water-dwelling, peaceful and undemanding to watch; they are poor climbers and must never be kept with large or predatory tankmates.
Care & Husbandry
Aquatic frogs need an aquarium with clean, well-filtered water, gentle flow and a land area they can rest on. Feed sinking pellets, bloodworms and small live foods; perform regular water changes and avoid strong currents or deep drops they cannot climb out of.
This species is generally rated Beginner in difficulty for keepers.
Health & Lifespan
In captivity Western Clawed Frog typically lives 5–8 years. Aquatic frogs commonly live 5–15 years. Skin and bacterial infections arise from poor water quality; perform regular water changes and avoid overcrowding.
Popularity & Recognition
The African clawed frog was historically a laboratory model organism and remains a common, hardy aquarium amphibian; the Surinam toad is famous for carrying eggs in its back skin.
