Giant Solomon Island frog

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Cornufer guppyi is a large amphibian endemic to the Solomon Islands archipelago, found on major islands such as Guadalcanal, Choiseul, Santa Isabel, and Bougainville. It inhabits primary tropical rainforests and montane river valleys. It is commonly found near rocky streams, riverbanks, and wet ravines up to 800 meters elevation.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Belonging to the family Ceratobatrachidae, genus Cornufer (formerly Platymantis), it is one of the largest species in its genus. This frog is known for its direct development reproductive strategy, where females lay large, yolk-rich eggs in damp, shaded terrestrial sites, bypassing the aquatic tadpole stage.

Behavior and Habits: Primarily nocturnal and semi-aquatic or riparian. During daylight hours, it conceals itself under large boulders near the water's edge, in rock crevices, or hollow logs. At night, it sits on wet rocks or low branches to ambush prey. Males produce a very loud, deep barking call that echoes along river valleys.

Morphology: A massive frog, with adult females reaching a snout-to-vent length of 10 to 12 centimeters or more. It has a broad head, powerful jaws, and large eyes. The skin is thick and covered with distinct folds and tubercles. Coloration ranges from dark brown to olive-green and grey, with mottled patterns for camouflage.

Terrarium Setup: Due to its large size and active nature, a spacious enclosure of at least 100x50x50 cm is required for a pair. A paludarium setup with a large, filtered water section is ideal. The land area should have a substrate of soil, bark, and river stones, covered by dried leaves. Provide large, stable hide caves.

Lighting and Heating: Prefers moderate temperatures of 22°C to 25°C during the day, dropping to 18°C-20°C at night. It is sensitive to high heat. Use a thermostat-controlled heating cable under the land section if needed. Provide low-output LED lighting to maintain a natural 12-hour light cycle without generating heat.

Humidity and Hydration: Maintain high humidity levels between 80% and 90%. Mist the enclosure thoroughly once or twice daily with dechlorinated water. The water section must have a strong filter and undergo regular water changes, as this large species produces substantial organic waste.

Feeding and Supplementation: A voracious predator. Feed a variety of large live invertebrates: large crickets, Dubia roaches, locusts, and earthworms. Avoid feeding pinky mice frequently to prevent fatty liver disease. Dust feeder insects with calcium and multivitamin powders twice a week.

Compatibility: Must be housed only with conspecifics of similar size due to its predatory nature. Any smaller tankmates will be consumed. Males can be territorial, so ensure the enclosure is large enough to prevent fighting. Do not mix with other amphibian or reptile species.

Health and Common Diseases: Highly sensitive to ammonia build-up in the water, which can trigger lethal bacterial skin infections (red leg). Excellent water filtration and regular enclosure disinfection are necessary. Ensure the terrarium has good ventilation to prevent stagnant air and mold growth.