Can an African Clawedd Frog Live Outside?

[kmhort]

Being the weather is warming up quite nicely, I was wanting to build my African clawed frog a bigger habitat.

Can these frogs live outside as long as they have an encloser and a nice shady place to get out of the sun?

[Kurt]

That may not be a good idea, enviromently-wise. Xenopus laevis has established itself in southern California and I would assume it could do the same in Texas if it managed to escape. Also they are a known carrier of chytrid. It doesn't affect them, but if they were to escape they could infect native frog populations with it (providing yours an actual carrier). I think there is just too at much risk. Why chance it?

Instead I would set up a large aquarium indoors. Maybe plant it with some nice aquarium plants like Aponogeton. Aponogeton madagascariensis is a personal favorite.

[kmhort]

I understand.

You know I have written a couple of articles about this subject, and have been scolded for implying that domestic frogs could carry this fungus.

People think I am crazy for saying it could kill every frog in Highland lakes. Maybe, just maybe I am not as crazy as they think.

That's what I get for second guessing myself and what I have reseached.

Thank you for the reminder.

[tgampper]

Being the weather is warming up quite nicely, I was wanting to build my African clawed frog a bigger habitat.

Can these frogs live outside as long as they have an encloser and a nice shady place to get out of the sun?

Kurt is correct. African clawed frogs are an invasive species and should not be placed in ponds or any outdoor facility. Although, they are mostly aquatic, they have been known to migrate short distances across land to more suitable locations. These frogs are known carriers of a deadly fungus called chytrid. Native frog populations have been wiped out once the disease has been established in an area. Although, we cannot completely blame African clawed frogs for the spread of the fungus since the American bullfrog is also a carrier.

It is important to note that importing and keeping African clawed frogs is illegal in the following states, unless you have a permit: Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Nevada, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon, Virginia and Washington.

Enjoy your frogs indoors

[tgampper]

Hi kmhort:

I was wondering if you can send me a copy of the articles? I am in the process of creating a database of Pipidae resources. Thanks.

[Kurt]

Thank you for the reminder.

You're welcome.