All About Full Grown Albino African Clawed Frog
The albino African clawed frog can make a unique and low-maintenance pet. However, as they mature into adulthood their needs change. This guide covers everything you need to know about keeping a full grown albino African clawed frog.
Size at Full Growth
On average, a full grown albino African clawed frog will reach 4-6 inches in length from nose to tail. Their height from belly to back is usually around 2-3 inches. Females tend to be slightly larger than males at full maturity.
Weight at Full Growth
A fully grown albino African clawed frog typically weighs 50-150 grams, depending on sex and overall size. Well-fed frogs in prime health fall in the higher end of this weight range.
Appearance at Full Growth
As adults, albino African clawed frogs have pale whitish or cream-colored skin and light pink or red eyes. Their skin remains smooth and moist.
Males develop bulges near their hind legs called nuptial pads which are used for amplexus during breeding.
Females develop prominent lateral ridges along their backs.
Personality at Full Growth
Mature albino African clawed frogs are generally peaceful but can become territorial over their spaces.
They are still curious and active swimmers as adults but their behavior is less jumpy or skittish compared to juveniles.
With proper care and handling they can still become comfortable around their owner.
Price
The price of a full grown albino African clawed frog ranges from $15-30 depending on availability from your local pet shop or reptile expo. Well-established lines from quality breeders may cost slightly more.
Food/Feeding
At full size, adult albino African clawed frogs consume approximately 15-30% of their body weight in food every 2-3 days. Suitable diet options include:
- Crickets
- Mealworms
- Waxworms
- Feeder fish (goldfish, feeder guppies)
- Shrimp or crab pieces
- Frog/fish food pellets
Supplements like vitamin dustings or liquid solutions should be given 1-2 times per week to maintain optimal health.
Lifespan
With high quality care, albino African clawed frogs have an average natural lifespan of 5-10 years in captivity. Some individuals live up to 15 years.
Health at Full Growth
Common health issues seen in mature albino African clawed frogs include:
- Obesity from overfeeding
- Malnutrition from improper diet
- Skin abrasions or infections from rough surfaces or poor water quality
- Internal parasite infections
- Metabolic bone disease from calcium or vitamin D3 deficiency
Regular vet checkups are recommended once frogs reach adulthood to monitor weight and catch any developing problems early.
Care and Nutritional Needs at Full Growth
The care requirements of a fully grown albino African clawed frog are similar to juveniles with some adjustments:
- Housing - A minimum 10 gallon aquarium or plastic tub. Tankmates not recommended.
- Temperature - 72-80°F maintained with underwater heater if needed.
- Filtration - A submersible filter rated for 1.5-2 times tank size.
- Water Changes - 25-50% weekly with conditioned water.
- Land Area - A large bowl or floating log for easy access in/out of water.
- Decor - Planted or plastic plants for coverage, gravel substrate.
- Lighting - Full spectrum lighting on a 10-12 hour cycle.
Costing
The average monthly costs of caring for a full grown albino African clawed frog are:
- $15-30 for food (size dependent)
- $5-10 for supplements
- $5-10 for utilities like filter media and lighting
- $10-15 for occasional vet visits and materials
Overall expect to spend $35-75 per month to properly care for a mature pet frog.
Possible Behavioral Changes of a Fully Grown Frog
As albino African clawed frogs reach sexual maturity, some subtle behaviors may emerge:
- Increased territorial displays from male frogs
- Calling/breeding behaviors like rapid leg movements from males
- Potential aggressive nip/biting if two male frogs are housed together
- Female frogs may develop breeding patches and tolerate amplexus if bred
It's best to house adult frogs individually unless breeding is the intent.
Notable Characteristics of a Fully Grown Frog
Some distinguishing traits of a mature albino African clawed frog include:
- Larger size and more robust build
- Fully developed skin without folds or wrinkles
- Distinct toe pads and claws for grasping
- Nuptial pads on males or lateral ridges on females
- Deeper pink eye color
- Potentially lighter or speckled skin coloring