African Dwarf Frog (Hymenochirus boettgeri) is a beginner-level freshwater amphibian that needs at least 5 gallons and 72-82°F. A small, fully aquatic frog that needs a lid with an air gap because it surfaces to breathe. Its eyesight is poor, so it often loses out on food to fast tankmates.
Care facts at a glance
| Scientific name | Hymenochirus boettgeri |
|---|---|
| Family | Pipidae |
| Origin | Central Africa |
| Adult size | 2 in |
| Minimum tank | 5 gallons |
| Temperature | 72-82°F |
| pH | 6.5-7.8 |
| Temperament | Peaceful, poor eyesight |
| Social behavior | Groups of 2+ |
| Swim level | All levels |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Diet | Carnivore: frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking frog pellets |
| Typical lifespan | 5 years |
Quick tips
- Use a lid with a small air gap and no open edges.
- Feed sinking foods or target-feed with a pipette.
- Do not mix with large or fast fish; keep calm tankmates.
San Diego water
Tolerates San Diego's hard, alkaline tap water (pH roughly 7.6-8.6) with slow acclimation and a conditioner that handles chloramine. Learn the numbers in our San Diego tap water guide.
Before you buy
Make sure your tank is cycled (how to cycle a tank), check your numbers with the water testing guide, and use the compatibility guide to check tankmates. These are general ranges; individual fish and local water vary.
Find it at Pet Zone
Pet Zone Tropical Fish is a San Diego aquarium store with two locations. Stock changes daily, so call ahead if you are after a specific species or plant. Shop online at petzonesd.com.
4160 Convoy St, San Diego, CA 92111
(858) 987-0309
Open daily, 10am-6pm
Aquascaping, planted tanks
4266 University Ave, San Diego, CA 92105
(619) 283-1812
Closed Monday; Tue-Fri 10:30am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Sun 11am-4pm
Monster fish, koi