Pacman Frog (Strawberry)

Pacman Frog (Strawberry)

Scientific Name: Ceratophrys cranwelliCommon Name: Pacman Frog, Strawberry Pacman Frog

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 47 inches (1018 cm), with females slightly larger and heavier-bodied than males.

Appearance: Strawberry Pacman Frogs display bright red to reddish-orange coloration across the body, often with faint yellow or cream undertones. They retain the broad, flattened head and large mouth characteristic of Ceratophrys species, with prominent cranial ridges (horns) above the eyes. Skin is smooth, thick, and slightly waxy.

Distribution: Native to northern Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, inhabiting grasslands, savannas, and forest edges.

Habitat: Terrestrial ambush predators inhabiting leaf-littered forest floors. They prefer moist, shaded areas and spend much of their time partially buried.

Behaviour: Sedentary sit-and-wait predator. Highly territorial and aggressive toward conspecifics and other amphibians.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A single adult should be housed in an 181818 inches (454545 cm) enclosure. Larger adults may benefit from a 241818 inches (604545 cm) enclosure for additional floor space. Provide a deep substrate of coco fibre or soil topped with leaf litter to allow burrowing. Include cork flats, low hides, and dense ground cover for security. A shallow water dish should be available for soaking and refreshed daily.

Temperature and Humidity:Warm area: 8085F (2729C)Cool area: 7275F (2224C)Humidity: 6580%, maintained with regular misting and a damp substrate without waterlogging.

Lighting: Low-intensity lighting with a 12-hour light cycle is sufficient. Low-level UVB may be beneficial but is not essential.

Diet: Feed a variety of appropriately sized insects such as crickets, roaches, and earthworms. Occasional pinky mice may be offered to adults. All prey should be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium; multivitamins provided periodically.

Behaviour in Captivity: Mostly sedentary and partially buried. Feeding is sudden and aggressive. Handling should be minimal to prevent stress and defensive biting.

Special Considerations: House singlyhighly aggressive and cannibalistic Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity Use feeding tongs to prevent bites Keep substrate clean and moist to prevent skin infections

Taxonomy Note

Pacman Frogs belong to the genus Ceratophrys, part of the family Ceratophryidae, a group of robust, terrestrial frogs known for their ambush predation strategy. Members of this family are native to South America and are characterized by broad, flattened heads, large mouths, and strong hind limbs adapted for sudden lunges on prey. Ceratophrys cranwelli is one of the better-known species in the family, valued for its distinctive cranial horns and wide gape used for ambush hunting.

Genetics Note

Strawberry (polygenic): Produces bright red to reddish-orange tones with subtle yellow or cream undertones. Expression varies among individuals and typically intensifies with age and proper husbandry.