African Bullfrog
Pyxicephalus adspersus
The African Bullfrog, or Pixie/Pyxie Frog, is a very large terrestrial amphibian. These rough-skinned frogs can reach dinner plate sizes, with 2 pound females, and males reaching up to 4 pounds! Pixies are typically a dark or olive green with a cream-colored underside and a very rough exterior. They also harbor three bones, known as odontoid structures, that protrude from their bottom jaw like teeth.
-In Nature-
Range
P. adspersus inhabit the Savanna in freshwater lakes, marshes, canals, and ditches.
Life Span
African Bullfrogs may live as long as 15 years.
Diet
In their natural habitat, these frogs dine on any invertebrate, insect, or mammal that will, or will almost, fit in their mouths.
-In Captivity-
Life Span
In captivity, these massive frogs have been known to live up to, and even over, 30 years!
Diet
Captive Pixies may be fed a diet of crickets, earthworms, moths, beetles, pinkie mice, minnows, crayfish, grasshoppers, and roaches.
Housing
A 15 or 20 gallon terrarium may house one female, while a 30 or 40 gallon may house one male. A 50/50 land to water ratio should suit the needs of these frogs. The substrate should be no deeper than the frog is high, however the water may gradually deepen after an initially shallow bank.
Feeding
Pixies should be fed calcium dusted prey items every day in a separate, bare bottomed container. Prey items should also be vitamin dusted every 2 to 3 days. Never dust pinkies or fish, which may be fed every 7 to 12 days.
Temperature
72 to 85°F gradient
Humidity
50 to 60%
Heating & Lighting
Incandescent lights may be used for heating and lighting. UVB is not required.
Handling
African Bullfrogs should only be handled when it is absolutely necessary, as they are aggressive. They should be grasped firmly behind the front limbs. The mouth should be avoided, as these frogs tend to bite.
Compatibility
Adults should be housed individually, as the species is known to be cannibalistic and battle aggressively for dominance and territory.
