Spur frog, maintenance and care

This frog came to our apartments from the African continent. Initially, it was actively used in scientific laboratories, including experiments related to cloning. But in recent years, its popularity as a pet has increased. All this is due to the unpretentiousness and high fertility of this species. In addition, frogs have a lively, friendly character, interesting habits, in a word, watching them after a hard day’s work is a pleasure.

Clawed frogs are exclusively aquatic amphibians and without water can quickly die. They got their name for the dark claws on the toes of the hind legs. In Africa, they inhabit reservoirs with stagnant or low-flowing water. Adults grow up to an average of 8–10 cm. To keep them at home, you need an aquarium, the volume of which will depend on the number of frogs (20 liters is quite suitable for a couple). The aquarium is approximately 2/3 filled with water, so that the water level is 25-30 cm, and there is air space between the water and the lid of the aquarium. It is necessary for breathing, frogs constantly emerge and breathe atmospheric air. Yes, a cover with small holes for ventilation in such an aquarium is a must. Without it, the frogs will easily jump out of the water and end up on the floor. The optimum water temperature is 21–25 degrees, that is, room temperature, so heating may not be required. Frogs live quietly without additional aeration of the water. They are also not particularly susceptible to the quality of the water itself, the only thing needed is settling for 2 days before being poured into the aquarium. High chlorine content can be harmful to health. So in highly chlorinated water, you need to add special preparations for aquarium water from a pet store. It is necessary to clean the aquarium as it becomes dirty, especially these pets do not like the greasy film on the surface, which sometimes forms after feeding.

Now let’s talk about decorating the aquarium. Land and an island are not required, as already mentioned above, this frog is exclusively aquatic. When arranging, you need to remember that you are dealing with very restless creatures, ready to turn everything upside down. As a soil, it is better to use pebbles and stones without sharp edges. Shelters can be made from driftwood, ceramic pots, or bought ready-made at the pet store. Plants, if used, are better than plastic, living ones will not feel very comfortable if they are constantly dug up, uprooted or covered with pebbles.

In principle, frogs may well get along with non-aggressive large fish. Small ones are more likely to be taken for food. But often they terrorize large fish, grabbing the tail and fins. So be guided by the nature of your pet.

In feeding, these frogs are also not picky and are ready to eat everything and always in huge quantities. The main thing here is to limit them, not to overfeed. Their body should be flattened, not spherical. They are prone to obesity and related diseases. You can feed bloodworms, pieces of lean beef, fish, flour and earthworms. Adults are fed 2 times a week, youth daily or every other day. Clawed frogs have a very well developed sense of smell, and they quickly react to the appearance of food in the water. It is very funny to watch how they push food into their mouths with their small front paws.

The nervousness of these animals has already been mentioned, often they react to loud and sharp sounds with panic attacks, they begin to rush around the aquarium, demolishing everything in their path. But it should be noted that they surprisingly quickly get used to a person, recognize the owner, and begin to observe with curiosity what is happening outside the aquarium. It is better not to take them in your hands, it will be extremely difficult to hold them because of their slippery skin and streamlined body. Yes, and to catch nimble animals in the water, even with a net, can be a difficult task. During the courtship period, males emit trills at night, somewhat reminiscent of the sounds of a rattle. If you do not have problems with sleep, then falling asleep to such a lullaby is very pleasant. With good care, they live up to 15 years. In a word, these little creatures, I am sure, will bring you a lot of positive emotions and make you smile more than once.

If you opted for a clawed frog, then you must:

1. Aquarium from 20 liters, with a lid and air space between it and the water level.
2. Soil – pebbles or stones without sharp edges
3. Shelters – driftwood, ready-made shelters from the pet store
4. Water temperature room (21-25 degrees)
5. Stand fresh water before adding to the aquarium for 2 days)
6. Ensure that no greasy film forms on the surface of the water.
7. Feed bloodworms, lean meats, fish, flour and earthworms
8. Calm environment

You can not:

1. Keep out of water.
2. Keep with small fish, as well as with aggressive inhabitants of the aquarium.
3. Keep in dirty water, with a film, and use water with a high chlorine content.
4. Feed fatty food, overfeed.
5. Make noise and make harsh sounds near the aquarium.