American Bullfrog

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Eastern North America. Widely introduced elsewhere (Europe, Asia, South America) where it is a harmful invasive species. Inhabits lakes, ponds, and slow rivers.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Family Ranidae, genus Lithobates (formerly Rana catesbeiana). Commonly named the American Bullfrog due to its deep bull-like vocalizations.

Behavior and Habits: Highly aquatic and territorial. A sit-and-wait ambush predator with an insatiable appetite. Active both day and night.

Morphology: Huge frog, reaching up to 20 cm and 500 g. Green to olive-brown. Males have tympanums larger than their eyes and yellow throats.

Terrarium Setup: A large paludarum (minimum 120x50x50 cm) is required, consisting of 70% filtered water area and 30% dry land with secure hiding spaces.

Lighting and Heating: Water temperatures should be 20-22 °C, with a land basking spot of 26-28 °C. Medium-output UVB lighting is recommended.

Humidity and Hydration: Maintain air humidity at 60-80%. Excellent water filtration is crucial as these frogs produce substantial waste.

Feeding and Supplementation: Carnivorous. Feeds on large insects, worms, small fish, and occasionally frozen-thawed mice. Add calcium and vitamins weekly.

Compatibility: Must be housed alone. Extremely cannibalistic; will readily consume any tankmate that fits into its wide mouth.

Health and Common Diseases: Highly resilient, but susceptible to chytridiomycosis if kept in poor water conditions. Requires regular partial water changes.