Mike’s Fish Tank – African Clawed Frog

The African clawed frog is a species of South African aquatic frog.  Its name is derived from the three short clawson each hind foot, which it uses to tear apart its food. African clawed frogs can grow up to a length of 5 inches. They have a flattened head and body, but no tongue or external ears. The species is found throughout most of Africa, and in isolated, introduced populations in North America, South America, and Europe. They use their hands to shove food in their mouths and down their throats. They lack true ears but have lateral lines running down the length of the body and underside, which is how they can sense movements and vibrations in the water. They use their sensitive fingers, sense of smell, and lateral line system to find food. Clawed frogs are scavengers and will eat almost anything living, dying or dead and any type of organic waste. These frogs are plentiful in ponds and rivers within the south-eastern portion of Sub-Saharan Africa. They are aquatic and are often greenish-grey in color. Albino varieties are commonly sold as pets. “Wild-type” African Clawed Frogs are also frequently sold as pets, and often incorrectly labeled as a Congo Frog or African Dwarf Frog because of similar colorings. They are easily distinguished from African Dwarf Frogs because African Clawed Frogs have webbing only on their hind feet while African Dwarf Frogs have webbing on all four feet. They reproduce by laying eggs. Also, the clawed frogs are the only amphibians to have actual (though small) claws.

The average life-span of these frogs ranges from 5-15 years with some individuals recorded to have lived for 20–25 years. They shed their skin every season, and eat their own shedded skin. Male frogs are usually about 20% smaller than females, with slim bodies and legs.

Males make mating calls to attract females, sounding very much like a cricket calling underwater. Females are larger than the males, appearing far more plump with hip-like bulges above their rear legs. African frogs are as easy to take care of as fish.

Pets A Plenty is located in the Blockbuster Video Plaza, Rte 281 Cortland, 753-9213. Open 7 days a week. We now have a website. www.petsaplety.biz. check it out. I post care sheets, coupons, new animal arrivals, contests and more. Any questions, email me at friskyy@hotmail.com

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