What is a Cranwell's horned frog, and how do you care for it?

The Cranwell's horned frog (scientific name: Ceratophrys cranwelli) is a unique amphibian native to South America. 

About 80% of the horned frogs you see in aquariums are Cranwell's horned frog, though you might not realize they belong to this species. It has the most varieties among all horned frog species.

The original Cranwell's horned frog is brown in color. After being introduced to Taiwan and becoming a common pet in aquariums, it has undergone selective breeding and improvement.
Nowadays, you can find Cranwell's horned frogs in various colors and patterns on the market. For example, there are bright green horned frogs, strawberry horned frogs with red patterns, golden horned frogs known as "fortune frogs," papaya horned frogs with a hint of orange, as well as Pikachu horned frogs and yellow-colored Gudetama horned frogs.
There are also super blue horned frogs with a bluish tint, and even mixed-color variants.

🐸 How to Care for a Cranwell's horned frog

Caring for a Cranwell's horned frog is not difficult, but there are some important points to keep in mind to ensure they thrive.

1. Appropriate Environment
Cranwell's horned frogs prefer a humid environment, so it is essential to maintain a humidity level of 50% to 70% in their enclosure.
You can achieve this by regularly misting the habitat. The ideal temperature range is between 26°C to 30°C (79°F to 86°F), with a slight drop in temperature at night.
The enclosure should also provide adequate hiding spots such as caves, rocks, or other objects that the frog can use to feel secure.

2. Diet and Feeding
These frogs are carnivorous and primarily feed on insects like crickets, cockroaches, and mealworms.
They can also eat small mammals (like baby mice) and other amphibians, as well as small feeder fish. It's important to feed them an appropriate amount and avoid overfeeding, especially with high-fat foods, to prevent obesity.
Each feeding should be limited to what they can consume in a short period.

3. Regular Cleaning 
Maintaining cleanliness in the enclosure is crucial. Since Cranwell's horned frogs live in humid conditions, bacteria and mold can easily develop.
Regularly replace the substrate, clean the water dish, and disinfect the enclosure to prevent the growth of harmful pathogens.

4. Health Monitoring
Regularly check the frog's health. If you notice abnormal skin discoloration, loss of appetite, or a significant decrease in activity, it may indicate a health issue. Immediate action should be taken, such as adjusting the environment or seeking veterinary assistance.

In summary, the Cranwell's horned frog is a unique and fascinating amphibian that is suitable for both experienced keepers and beginners.
With the right environment, a balanced diet, and regular health management, these frogs can thrive in captivity and become long-term companions.

Check out Peter's video to learn more about caring for horned frogs!