Full Grown Pacman Frog: Size, Appearance, Price & More

The pacman frog, also known as the horned frog, is a popular pet that remains small and docile as juveniles but grows quite large as an adult. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about fully grown pacman frogs including their size, appearance, personality, care needs, and more.

Size at Full Growth

On average, pacman frogs reach their full size at around 3-4 years old. A fully grown male pacman frog will typically measure 5-6 inches in body length from nose to vent. Females tend to be larger, averaging 6-8 inches in length as adults.

In terms of height, adult male pacmans are usually 2-3 inches tall while females reach 3-4 inches in height. Weight varies more substantially based on gender as well - males typically weigh 200-300 grams fully grown whereas females can weigh 400-600 grams at maturity.

Appearance at Full Growth

Visually, adult pacman frogs have a stout, warty profile. Their green, gray, or brown coloration helps them blend into their tropical environments. Males develop more pronounced orbital fronts (bony plates above the eyes) and toe pads compared to females.

One notable trait of fully grown pacmans is their gaping mouth. When threatened, they will greatly expand their mouth - giving rise to their "pacman" name. This defensive behavior is less common in tamer, captive-bred frogs.

Personality at Full Growth

As pacmans mature, their personality tends to become more sedentary and solitary. Adults prefer to spend their time resting versus being active like juveniles. While still generally docile pets, fully grown frogs may become more irritable if handled excessively.

It's important to consider an adult pacman's changes in demeanor and need for space/solitude. Be thoughtful about handling and provide ample resting spots in their enclosure. Respect boundaries to minimize stressing a mature frog.

Price

Depending on factors like availability, morph, and demand, expect to pay $50-150 for a juvenile pacman frog. Fully grown specimens command higher prices ranging from $100-300 due to their large size.

Exotic, rare colors fetch premium costs, sometimes exceeding $500 per adult frog. Always research a breeder's reputation before purchasing to ensure a frog's health and quality of care.

Food and Feeding

Pacman frogs have voracious appetites throughout their lives. As adults, their food needs increase substantially. Fully grown males can eat 1-2 feeder insects 1-2 times per week such as large/adult crickets or roaches. Females require even more substantial meals of 3-5 feeders twice weekly.

Occasionally incorporating worms, pinky mice, or chunks of lean protein like chicken or beef in their diet helps meet an adult's caloric demands. Always remove any uneaten food after 30 minutes to avoid digestive issues.

Lifespan

With excellent care, pacman frogs have a lifespan of 10-15 years. Some frogs have been documented living as long as 20 years in captivity. Factors like diet, health issues, and husbandry all impact lifespan potential.

Expect to provide lifelong care as these are long-living frogs. Invest in a tank setup suitable for both a juvenile and full grown adult's needs.

Health at Full Growth

Common health concerns seen in adult pacmans include obesity, joint/bone issues, impaction/constipation, internal parasites, and infections if husbandry is lacking. Females in particular are prone to weight gain.

Monitor weight and provide a varied, nutrient-rich diet. Inspect feces regularly for parasites. Keep their dedicated habitat clean, maintain correct temperatures/humidity, and watch for any behavioral changes.

Care and Nutritional Needs

At full size, pacmans need adequately large, secure habitats such as a 20-40 gallon aquarium or terrarium. Provide multiple hiding places, deep substrate/coco fiber bedding, and decor to climb/bury.

Maintain warm temperatures around 80°F during the day with access to a cool hide for thermoregulation. Humidity of 60-80% avoids dehydration. Mist the enclosure 2-3 times weekly.

Adults have higher nutritional needs than juveniles. Feed a variety of appropriately-sized whole prey dusted with calcium/vitamin supplements 1-2 times per week. Provide a shallow water dish for soaking.

Possible Behavioral Changes

While pacmans remain mostly docile pets, adult frogs tend to be less active than juveniles. Fully grown females especially are prone to becoming less mobile or sedentary. Don't be alarmed by this shift in temperament.

Maturity may also bring about less desirable behaviors like biting if over-stressed. Give adults privacy and don't provoke unnecessary handling. Changes are normal considering their size/age - be an observant, respectful owner.

Noteworthy Characteristics

Some distinctive traits of adult pacmans include their very large mouths, robust builds, prominent toe pads/orbital plates on males. Females develop visible collarbones too.

Their color/patterns may deepen or fade with age. Many thrive as solitary pets without issues unlike communal frogs. Daily soaks aid shedding as skin can thicken at maturity.

Costs of Ownership

While pacmans have simple care needs, expect the costs of owning a full grown specimen to be higher than a juvenile. Budget for a large enclosure, higher quality lighting/heating, specialty substrates, decor, and higher quality/quantity of food.

Ample space and appropriate furnishings are needed to house an active, 8-inch frog humanely. Housing adults communally is not advised due to potential aggression. Plan expenses accordingly before adopting.