Cuban Tree Frog
(Osteopilus septentrionalis)

As their name suggests, Cuban tree frogs come from Cuba and the surrounding islands. Populations of Cuban tree frogs are also now established in south Florida.

Colors range for the Cuban tree frog from gray to tan to brownish-green. Many Cuban tree frogs have marbled patterns or darker blotching and may have striping on the legs. The skin of the Cuban tree frog is textured, or "warty." Cuban tree frogs habe large eyes smd sticky "cups" on their toes. Male Cuban tree frogs may have darker throats than females.

Difficulty

NOVICE: The Cuban tree 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 (20 gallons or more, depending on the number of Cuban tree 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

Cuban tree frogs do well in a 20 gallon aquarium with a tight fitting lid. Cuban tree frogs are arboreal, so plenty of live plants and branches should be provided since tree frogs will spend most of their time being high in the enclosure. Plants and hollow logs and branches provide shelter and security.

Substrate

Cuban tree 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 Cuban tree frog.

Heating and Light

Cuban tree frogs should have daytime temperatures of 82°F to 85°F. Nightime temperatures should be 72°F to 75°F. A spotlight with an appropriate wattage incandescnet bulb or ceramic emitter can be used to provide heat. Cuban tree frogs are nocturnal and do not require bulbs to provide UVA or UVB, however if live plants are used a plant grow bulb should be used to keep the planys 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.

Diet

Cuban tree frogs are insectivores. Crickets, cockroaches, locusts, moths and beetles can all be offered to Cuban tree frogs. Pinky mice may also be occasionally offered as well. Adult Cuban tree frogs should be fed once every two to three days. Young tree frogs should be fed more frequently. Fat is stored in the supratympanic ridges of the Cuban tree frog, so if the supratympanic ridges seem enlarged it may indicate over eating and feeding.