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Description
Big Eye Tree Frog
Scientific Name: Leptopelis vermiculatus
Common Name: Big Eye Tree Frog, Vermiculated Tree Frog
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 2.5 to 3.5 inches (6.5 to 9 cm), with females generally larger and more robust.
Appearance: The Big Eye Tree Frog is recognised for its large, expressive eyes with gold or copper irises. Dorsal colouration ranges from green to brown, often featuring intricate vermiculated (worm-like) patterns, mottling, or irregular blotching. Some individuals appear more uniformly green, while others display elaborate earthy patterns. Skin texture is smooth to slightly granular, and the underside is pale. Broad toe pads allow excellent climbing ability.
Distribution: Endemic to eastern Tanzania, primarily occupying montane and submontane rainforest regions.
Habitat: Wild individuals inhabit moist forest understory, shrubs, and low vegetation near streams or temporary pools. They rely on stable humidity, dense foliage, and abundant vertical structure.
Behaviour: Nocturnal and arboreal, these frogs rest in foliage during the day and become active at night to forage and climb. Males produce soft, short calls during the breeding season. They are shy but adapt well once established in suitable environments.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A single adult or small group thrives in an 18 × 18 × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) enclosure, while larger groups benefit from a 24 × 18 × 24 inches (60 × 45 × 60 cm) setup. Provide abundant vertical climbing structure with branches, cork flats, vines, and dense foliage. Use a moisture-retentive, naturalistic substrate such as coco fibre, soil blends, or sphagnum mixes to maintain humidity while allowing proper drainage. Include a shallow water basin for hydration.
Temperature and Humidity:
Ambient temperature: 74 to 80°F (23 to 27°C)
Warm area: around 82 to 84°F (28 to 29°C)
Night temperature: 68 to 72°F (20 to 22°C)
Humidity: 60 to 90%, with daily misting and strong airflow to prevent stagnation.
Lighting: Provide low to moderate UVB (2 to 5%) with bright, diffused lighting. Avoid intense heat sources.
Diet: Offer small to medium insects such as crickets, roaches, black soldier fly larvae, silkworms, and occasional waxworms. Supplement all prey with calcium and multivitamins.
Behaviour in Captivity: Big Eye Tree Frogs settle well in tall, densely planted enclosures. They are shy but grow more confident with consistent conditions. Handling should be avoided due to their permeable skin.
Special Considerations:
• If handling is unavoidable, use wet, powder-free gloves or a soft, damp net—never bare hands.
• Provide strong ventilation to reduce risk of skin or respiratory issues.
• Use clean, dechlorinated water for misting and drinking.
• Offer dense foliage and multiple elevated hiding spots to reduce stress.
• Mist regularly but avoid oversaturating substrate.
• Secure enclosure openings—these frogs are powerful climbers and jumpers.
Taxonomy Note
Leptopelis vermiculatus belongs to the family Arthroleptidae. The genus Leptopelis is known for its expressive-eyed arboreal frogs distributed across sub-Saharan Africa. This species is distinguished by its vermiculated patterning and preference for montane forest environments. Unlike some congeners, it tends to remain closer to ground-level vegetation rather than high canopy perches.
Genetics Note
There are no recognised morphs for Leptopelis vermiculatus. Natural variation in pattern complexity, eye pigmentation, and colour tone occurs among individuals but does not represent established genetic morphs.