Mitchell's Reed Frog

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to East Africa (Tanzania, Malawi, Mozambique). Inhabits humid savannas, swamps, and vegetation lining ponds and streams.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Family Hyperoliidae, genus Hyperolius. Exhibits significant color polymorphism and adaptive patterns for camouflage among reeds.

Behavior and Habits: Arboreal and mostly crepuscular. Males call loudly at night. They thrive and display more natural behaviors in small social groups.

Morphology: Tiny size of 2-3 cm (approx. 1 inch). Green or golden back with distinct dark and white lines, with bright orange coloration on the undersides of the limbs.

Terrarium Setup: Tall vertical enclosure or paludarium (minimum 30x30x45 cm / 12x12x18 inches for a group). Plant densely with broad-leafed plants (e.g., Pothos), vertical reeds, and a shallow water area.

Lighting and Heating: Daytime temperature of 24-28°C (75-82°F) dropping to 20-22°C (68-72°F) at night. Provide low-level (2-5%) UVB lighting to support bone health.

Humidity and Hydration: High humidity of 70-90%. Mist once or twice daily. Water must be dechlorinated and changed daily as they soak to rehydrate.

Feeding and Supplementation: Insectivorous. Feed tiny insects (fruit flies, pinhead crickets) every other day. Dust prey with calcium and multivitamins twice a week.

Compatibility: Peaceful and gregarious. Can be kept in mixed groups of males and females in a spacious tank. Handling must be avoided due to their highly permeable skin.

Health and Common Diseases: Highly susceptible to dehydration and skin infections if enclosure hygiene is neglected or water is stagnant. Ensure good ventilation.