Species Overview

• Common Name: African Clawed Frog

• Scientific Name: Xenopus laevis

• Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity

• Adult Size: 4–5 inches

• Temperament: Semi-aggressive, opportunistic feeders

• Origin: Sub-Saharan Africa

• Tank Level: Fully aquatic

Natural Habitat

African Clawed Frogs live in warm, stagnant ponds and slow-moving waters across Africa. They’re named for the small claws on their hind feet, which they use to tear apart food.

Enclosure Setup

These frogs are 100% aquatic and need a fish-tank style setup. Avoid anything too tall — surface access is crucial.

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons for 1 adult; add 10 gallons per additional frog

• Water Type: Dechlorinated freshwater

• Filtration: Strong filter with gentle flow

• Substrate: Sand or bare bottom

• Decor: Smooth hides, rocks, driftwood

• Plants: Live or artificial (anchored well)

Temperature & Humidity

• Water Temperature: 70–75°F (21–24°C)

• pH Level: 6.5–7.5

• Humidity: N/A (fully aquatic)

Lighting

These frogs do not require UVB, but a day/night cycle is beneficial. Use an aquarium light with a 12-hour cycle.

Diet & Feeding

African Clawed Frogs are voracious eaters.

• Diet:

  • Sinking amphibian pellets

  • Bloodworms

  • Brine shrimp

  • Earthworms

  • Occasional fish (avoid live feeder fish if not quarantined)

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Juveniles: daily

  • Adults: 3–4 times per week

Behavior & Temperament

These frogs can be aggressive feeders and may eat smaller tankmates, including other frogs. Best kept solo or with similarly sized African Clawed Frogs in large tanks.

Cleaning & Maintenance

• Partial water changes (25%) weekly

• Vacuum substrate gently

• Keep a tight lid — they’re escape artists!

Common Health Concerns

• Red Leg Syndrome

• Fungal infections

• Bloating (dropsy)

Good filtration, water quality, and stable temperatures help prevent most issues.

Breeding Info

Requires a cooling period followed by warm temperatures and heavy feeding. They’re external fertilizers and can produce hundreds of eggs in a spawn.

Fun Facts

• They were once used in pregnancy tests in the 1930s!

• They lack tongues and eyelids — they push food into their mouths with their front limbs.

• Their skin secretes antimicrobial peptides used in medical research.

🛠 Hunter’s Picks: Supplies for African Clawed Frogs

Here’s everything I use and recommend for keeping African Clawed Frogs happy and healthy:

• 20-Gallon ReptiZoo Glass Aquarium – Perfect starter size

• AQQA Sponge Filter – Quiet, gentle flow, and amphibian safe

• Seachem Prime Water Conditioner – Dechlorinate safely

• QZQ Digital Thermometer – For easy water temp monitoring

• API Freshwater Master Test Kit – Crucial for water quality

• Soft Sinking Pellets – Staple diet for clawed frogs

• Texas Live Plant Bundle – Great for natural coverage

• ALEGI Smooth Rock Cave – Safe hiding spot

• Classic Natural Aquarium Sand – Gentle and clean substrate