African Reed Frog
(Hyperolius argus)

African reed frogs can be found throughour sub-Sahara Africa and are semi-arboreal and reach sizes of one one to two inches. They get the name reed frog from their tendacy to spend days perched on reeds and other emergent vegetation. The African reed frog is one of only five species of frogs in which male and female reed frogs do not share the same coloration. Male African reed frogs are usually greenish in color, while female African reed frogs are usually reddish with bright little spots. This species is highly variable in color and pattern however.

Difficulty

NOVICE: The African reed frog's smaller size make it an excellent choice for hobbyists to keep, especially those who have experience with tropical fish.

Requirements

An enclosure, such as:

• Glass or acrylic aquarium (10 gallons or more, depending on the number of African reed frogs kept) with a secure lid

Substrate, such as:

• Potting soil
• Peat Moss
• Paper Towels

A heating element, such as:

• Under the tank heater
• Incandescent heat bulb
• Ceramic infrared heat emitters

Enclosure

A group of four to six African reed frogs will do well in a 10 gallon aquarium with a tight fitting lid. African reed frogs will also do well with plenty of live plants or artificial plants. Plants and hollow logs and branches provide shelter and security. Pieces of driftwood, thin bamboo poles, and other wooded branches can be added as perches for the African reed frogs at night. Placing these perches under a basking spot will provide a warm, brightly lit area for resting during the day. Pothos (Scindapsus aureus) and snake plants (Sansevieria species) are both excellent choices for African reed frog enclosures.

Substrate

African reed frogs can be kept on potting soil, peat moss or a few sheets of damp paper towels on the bottom of the aquarium. Avoid using small bark and gravel as a substrate due to danger of accidental ingestion which can lead to health problems for the African reed frog.

Heating and Light

Chinese water dragons should have daytime temperatures of 70°F to 80°F with a basking spot of 90°F. Nightime temperatures should be 65°F to 70°F. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb or ceramic emitter can be used to provide heat. While African reed frogs do not require bulbs to provide UVA or UVB. African reed frogs do require a bright photoperiod during the day and if live plants are used a plant grow bulb should be used to keep the plants healthy. An under tank heater can be used to increase the ambient temperature of the enclosure. Many hobbyists will install thermometers or thermostats in the enclsosure to be able to accurately maintain these temperatures. Humidity should be maintained at relatively high levels of 80% and can be acheived by frequent mistings.

Diet

African reed frogs are insectivores. Any insect smaller that the head of the African reed frogs such as crickets, wingless fruitflys, houseflys, small moths can be offered. Adult African reed frogs should be fed three to six appropriate sized prey each once every two to three days. Young reed frogs should be fed more frequently. Insects should be gut loaded and dusted with a calcium and vitamin D3 suppliment at least once a week.