Small creatures. Extraordinary world.   •   A Really Byte field guide
Pipidae · Species field note

African clawed frog

Xenopus laevis

A field-note profile. No species photograph is currently included here.
Region
Africa
Main habitat
aquatic
Adult body length
About 5–11.5 cm; females larger
Keeping suitability
For experienced keepers

A little natural history

An aquatic frog with flattened proportions and clawed hind toes. This is the larger Xenopus, not the small African dwarf frog often sold for aquariums. It surfaces to breathe.

The wonderfully odd bit

This species became an important animal in embryology and historical pregnancy testing.

Would this frog suit a home?

Use a secure, cycled species aquarium with an accessible air surface and appropriate aquatic foods. Check local rules and never release it or aquarium water into natural habitats.

Only consider legally obtained, captive-bred animals. Check permits and restrictions where you live, test the habitat first, and arrange an amphibian-experienced vet. This brief profile is not a complete husbandry sheet.

Keep exploring

Read the reference for this species ↗

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