Aquatic frogs are some of the most charming and unusual animals you can add to a freshwater aquarium. Fully aquatic, active, and full of personality, they make a fun change of pace from the usual fish. At Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, we carry aquatic frogs for hobbyists who want a unique freshwater aquarium resident.
Before choosing an aquatic frog, it is important to understand that the two most common aquarium frogs have very different care needs. African Dwarf Frogs stay small and peaceful, while African Clawed Frogs grow much larger and are predatory.
African Dwarf Frog vs. African Clawed Frog
The African Dwarf Frog, Hymenochirus spp., is a small, peaceful, fully aquatic frog that usually stays around 1.5 inches. It can work well in calm community aquariums with compatible tankmates.
The African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis, grows much larger and is a strong predator. It may eat fish, shrimp, or other tankmates that fit in its mouth, so it is usually best kept in a species-only aquarium.
Aquatic Frog Care Tips
- Use a fully cycled freshwater aquarium
- Keep the tank covered with a secure lid
- Provide stable tropical temperatures around 75–80°F
- Use gentle filtration because aquatic frogs dislike strong current
- Treat tap water with a quality water conditioner
- Provide live plants, hides, and resting places near the surface
- Feed sinking carnivore foods, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other frog-safe foods
Best Tank Mates for Aquatic Frogs
Tank mates depend on the species. African Dwarf Frogs can live with calm, peaceful fish such as small tetras, rasboras, peaceful corydoras, and other gentle community fish. Avoid fast, aggressive, or nippy fish that may outcompete them for food.
African Clawed Frogs should usually be kept alone or in a species-only setup because they are larger, predatory, and may eat smaller fish or shrimp.
Aquatic Frogs FAQ
Can African Dwarf Frogs live with fish?
Yes. African Dwarf Frogs can live with calm, peaceful fish that are not aggressive and will not outcompete them too heavily at feeding time.
Do aquatic frogs need a heater?
Yes. Most common aquatic frogs kept in aquariums are tropical and do best with stable temperatures around 75–80°F.
What do aquatic frogs eat?
Aquatic frogs are carnivores. Offer sinking carnivore foods, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and other frog-safe foods. Target feeding may be needed in community tanks.
How big do aquatic frogs get?
African Dwarf Frogs usually stay around 1.5 inches. African Clawed Frogs can grow to 4–5 inches or larger and need a much different setup.
Are African Clawed Frogs community safe?
No. African Clawed Frogs are predatory and may eat fish, shrimp, or other animals that fit in their mouth.
Can aquatic frogs be shipped?
No. Live aquatic frogs are available for in-store purchase or local pickup only at Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop aquatic frogs, freshwater fish, live aquarium plants, frozen foods, water conditioners, aquarium heaters, filtration supplies, and aquarium care products. Live livestock is available for in-store purchase or local pickup only.
