Cinnamon Tree Frog

Cinnamon Tree Frog

Scientific Name: Nyctixalus pictus
Common Name: Cinnamon Tree Frog, Painted Indonesian Tree Frog

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 1.25 to 1.75 inches (3 to 4.5 cm), with females slightly larger than males.

Appearance: The Cinnamon Tree Frog is a beautifully patterned, compact arboreal species named for its warm cinnamon to reddish-brown colouration. The body is marked with irregular white or yellowish spots, often ringed with darker pigment. Skin texture is slightly bumpy, giving a mossy or textured appearance. The eyes are large and dark with horizontal pupils, and the slender limbs end in small toe pads adapted for climbing fine vegetation. Their distinctive colour and spotting make them one of the more visually striking Southeast Asian tree frogs.

Distribution: Native to Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and parts of Thailand.

Habitat: Wild individuals inhabit lowland and hill rainforests, often near streams or temporary pools. They rest in vegetation, shrubs, and low branches, favouring areas with dense foliage and stable humidity.

Behaviour: Primarily nocturnal and shy, Cinnamon Tree Frogs are delicate climbers that remain motionless when threatened. They become active after dark to forage among branches and leaves. Males produce soft calls from elevated perches during the breeding season.

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 structure such as thin branches, twigs, cork flats, and dense foliage for cover. Use a moisture-retentive natural substrate such as coco fibre, soil blends, or sphagnum mixes to help maintain humidity without oversaturation. Include a shallow water basin.

Temperature and Humidity:
Ambient temperature: 74 to 80°F (23 to 27°C)
Warm area: 82°F (28°C)
Night temperature: 68 to 72°F (20 to 22°C)
Humidity: 70 to 90%, maintained through frequent misting and good airflow.

Lighting: Provide low UVB (2 to 5%) with soft, diffused lighting to avoid drying the enclosure.

Diet: Offer small insects such as fruit flies, small crickets, springtails, bean beetles, and small roaches. Supplement prey with calcium and multivitamins.

Behaviour in Captivity: Cinnamon Tree Frogs thrive in densely planted terrariums with plenty of narrow perches. They are shy and sensitive, becoming active mainly at night. They acclimate well to stable humidity and quiet environments. Handling should be avoided due to their delicate size and permeable skin.

Special Considerations:
• If handling is unavoidable, use wet, powder-free gloves or a soft, damp net to prevent skin damage.
• Provide narrow branches and dense vegetation—this species prefers fine perching options.
• Maintain high humidity with strong ventilation to prevent stagnation.
• Use only dechlorinated water for misting and hydration.
• Avoid oversaturating substrate; allow natural moisture cycling.
• Seal enclosure gaps carefully—this is a small, agile species capable of quick escape.

Taxonomy Note

Nyctixalus pictus belongs to the family Rhacophoridae, the African and Asian “moss and foam-nesting frogs.” Members of Nyctixalus are known for their textured skin, spotted appearance, and secretive arboreal habits. This species is closely related to Nyctixalus robinsoni and N. margaritifer, sharing similar camouflage and microhabitat preferences.

Genetics Note

There are no recognised morphs for Nyctixalus pictus. Natural variation occurs in spotting density, base colour tone, and brightness, but none represent defined genetic morphs.