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African Dwarf Frogs for Kids

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Caring for an African dwarf frog is simple, making them a great pet for kids. You don't have to worry about walking a frog or bathing him; you only have to maintain a basic aquarium. The African dwarf frog isn't known for having bright coloration, but because it is small - 1.5 to 2.5 inches long - and kids find the frog cute, making it an instant hit.

African Dwarf Frog

The African dwarf frog is also known as dwarf clawed frog and Congo frog. The species is native to parts of Sub-Saharan Africa through the Congo region. The frog is completely aquatic except to come up to take a few breaths above the water.

Aquarium Size

The African dwarf frog does best with at least one other frog. Two adult frogs need at least a 5-gallon aquarium, but if you only want one frog, house him in a 1- to 2-gallon tank. The African dwarf frog is not a good swimmer and must occasionally surface for air, so make sure the aquarium is no more than 2 to 3 feet tall. Also, make sure that the aquarium has a lid so that the frog cannot jump out of the water.

Aquarium Filter

When setting up an aquarium for an African dwarf frog, you don't have to use a water filter, but if you don't use a filter, you will have to frequently change the water to make sure that it stays clean. By adding a filter to the aquarium, it will help maintain the water quality so that the African dwarf frog can stay healthy.

Aquarium Substrate

When decorating the aquarium, you can use any popular aquarium gravel as substrate. The brightly colored aquarium gravel is a popular substrate because it comes in a wide variety of bright colors, but you also can use glass stone or aquarium sand.

Aquarium Decor

Add foliage -- fake or live plants -- for the frog to hide and play in. If you prefer fake plants, choose a soft, silk plant that won't scratch the frog's skin. The African dwarf frog isn't known for destroying live plants, so if you prefer live plants to help maintain water quality, they can be a nice alternative to artificial plants. You can add fun caves and decorations to the aquarium, but avoid anything that has sharp edges, as the African dwarf frog does have sensitive skin that can be scratched easily.

Water Temperature

Use a thermostat to gauge the water temperature. You want the water maintained between 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need to increase the temperature, use a submersible water heater.

Feeding Aquatic Frogs

The African dwarf frog is not a picky eater and will consume live or frozen foods, as well as sinking pellets. You want to offer brine shrimp and bloodworms every other day. The frog will hunt by smell and touch and are considered semi-scavengers, feeding off the aquarium floor.