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Description
Forest White-lipped Frog
Scientific Name: Amnirana albolabris
Common Name: Forest White-lipped Frog
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 2.5–4 inches (6–10 cm) in length, with females slightly larger than males.
Appearance: Forest White-lipped Frogs are medium-sized frogs with smooth, moist skin. Dorsal coloration is usually olive to brown, with lighter ventral surfaces. A distinct white stripe runs along the upper lip, giving the species its common name. Limbs are long and slender, adapted for leaping.
Distribution: Native to West and Central Africa, including countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. They inhabit tropical forests and forest edges near freshwater sources.
Habitat: Terrestrial and semi-arboreal, often found near streams, ponds, and forested wetlands. They are active both during the day and night.
Behaviour: Active hunters feeding on insects and other small invertebrates. Agile and capable of long leaps to escape predators.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A single adult should be housed in an 18 × 18 × 12 inches (45 × 45 × 30 cm) enclosure with a substrate of soil or coco fibre for burrowing and moisture retention. Include plants, leaf litter, and low hides for security. Larger adults may benefit from a 24 × 18 × 18 inches (60 × 45 × 45 cm) enclosure for additional floor space.
Temperature and Humidity:
Warm area: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
Cool area: 70–75°F (21–24°C)
Humidity: 70–85%, maintained with regular misting and a damp substrate.
Lighting: Low-intensity lighting with a 12-hour light cycle. Low-level UVB may be beneficial but is not essential.
Diet: Feed a variety of appropriately sized insects such as crickets, roaches, and earthworms. Gut-loaded prey with calcium supplementation recommended.
Behaviour in Captivity: Active and alert. Frogs may climb on plants and hides. Handling should be minimal to reduce stress.
Special Considerations:
• Maintain high humidity with a damp substrate
• Provide climbing and hiding structures
• Avoid excessive handling
Taxonomy Note
Forest White-lipped Frogs belong to the genus Amnirana, part of the family Ranidae, a diverse group of medium to large-sized “true frogs” native to Africa. Members of this family are characterized by their smooth, moist skin, long legs, and agile leaping ability. Amnirana albolabris is valued for its distinctive white lip stripe, arboreal tendencies, and active hunting behavior.
Genetics Note
Naturally occurring species with no recognized captive-bred morphs.