Quick Facts
Common Name: Argentine Horned Frog, Pac-Man Frog
Scientific Name: Ceratophrys ornata
Lifespan: 6–10 years (up to 15 with excellent care)
Size: 4–7 inches (females larger)
Temperament: Sedentary, can be aggressive when hungry
Origin: Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil
Tank Level: Terrestrial, burrowing
Natural Habitat
Native to humid grasslands and subtropical lowlands of South America, these frogs spend most of their time buried with just their eyes above the surface, ambushing prey.
Enclosure Setup
Pac-Man frogs are terrestrial ambush predators. They don’t climb, so horizontal floor space is key.
Tank Size: 10–20 gallons per frog
Substrate: Deep, moist substrate for burrowing (4–6 inches)
Substrate Type: Coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, or ABG mix
Décor: Hide, leaf litter, plants (optional), water dish
Cover: Low lighting, moderate foliage/shadow
Temperature & Humidity
Day Temp: 75–85°F (24–29°C)
Night Temp: 70–75°F (21–24°C)
Humidity: 60–80%
Heating: Under-tank heater on side or thermostat-controlled heat mat
Lighting
UVB: Optional but recommended at 2.0–5.0 strength
Photoperiod: 12-hour light/dark cycle
Diet & Feeding
These frogs are known for their insatiable appetite and wide mouths.
Main Diet:
Crickets, roaches, nightcrawlers, hornworms, black soldier fly larvae
Occasional pinkie mice (adults only — not regular)
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Every 1–2 days
Adults: Every 2–3 days
Supplements:
Calcium with D3 – 2x per week
Calcium without D3 – 1x per week
Reptivite multivitamin – 1x per week
Behavior & Temperament
Sit-and-wait predator
May lunge at food or anything that moves near them
Avoid handling – they can bite and stress easily
Known to burrow and stay hidden for days
Cleaning & Maintenance
Spot clean daily
Full substrate change every 4–6 weeks
Use dechlorinated water for misting and soaking
Common Health Issues
Impaction from large prey or substrate ingestion
Red leg syndrome (bacterial infection)
Overfeeding and obesity
Poor shedding due to low humidity
Breeding Info
Breeding requires hibernation simulation, with a cool-down and rain chamber setup. Males develop vocal sacs and call; females lay eggs in water.
Fun Facts
Nicknamed “Pac-Man” for their giant mouths and round shape
Can eat prey nearly half their own body size
Males are smaller and may croak when held or touched
🛠 Hunter’s Picks: Pac-Man Frog Setup Gear
Your Pac-Man frog will thrive with the right enclosure, substrate, and supplements. Here’s my recommended build:
REPTI ZOO 20 Gallon Terrarium – Great size for adults
Natural Substrate Coconut Soil – Holds moisture & ideal for burrowing
Premium Sphagnum Moss – Retains humidity on top layer
Leaf Litter – Helps retain moisture and adds a natural touch
Large Hide – Secure hiding place
Driftwood Climbing Decor – Optional but attractive
Reptizoo Digital Thermometer & Hygrometer – For accurate temp/humidity
Exo Terra 2qt Spray Bottle – Mist to maintain humidity
Seachem Prime Water Conditioner – Make tap water safe
Repti Calcium + D3, No D3, and Reptivite Kit – For balanced nutrition
