Pacman Frog (Matcha)

Pacman Frog (Matcha)

Scientific Name: Ceratophrys cranwelli
Common Name: Pacman Frog, Matcha Pacman Frog

Species Overview

Size: Adults typically reach 4–7 inches (10–18 cm), with females slightly larger and heavier-bodied than males.

Appearance: Matcha Pacman Frogs display soft, muted green tones with hints of olive or yellow undertones. They retain the broad, flattened head and large mouth characteristic of Ceratophrys species, with prominent cranial ridges (“horns”) above the eyes. Skin is smooth, thick, and slightly waxy.

Distribution: Native to northern Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil, inhabiting grasslands, savannas, and forest edges.

Habitat: Terrestrial ambush predators inhabiting leaf-littered forest floors. They prefer moist, shaded areas and spend much of their time partially buried.

Behaviour: Sedentary sit-and-wait predator. Highly territorial and aggressive toward conspecifics and other amphibians.

Captive Care

Enclosure: A single adult should be housed in an 18 × 18 × 18 inches (45 × 45 × 45 cm) enclosure. Larger adults may benefit from a 24 × 18 × 18 inches (60 × 45 × 45 cm) enclosure for additional floor space. Provide a deep substrate of coco fibre or soil topped with leaf litter to allow burrowing. Include cork flats, low hides, and dense ground cover for security. A shallow water dish should be available for soaking and refreshed daily.

Temperature and Humidity:
Warm area: 80–85°F (27–29°C)
Cool area: 72–75°F (22–24°C)
Humidity: 65–80%, maintained with regular misting and a damp substrate without waterlogging.

Lighting: Low-intensity lighting with a 12-hour light cycle is sufficient. Low-level UVB may be beneficial but is not essential.

Diet: Feed a variety of appropriately sized insects such as crickets, roaches, and earthworms. Occasional pinky mice may be offered to adults. All prey should be gut-loaded and dusted with calcium; multivitamins provided periodically.

Behaviour in Captivity: Mostly sedentary and partially buried. Feeding is sudden and aggressive. Handling should be minimal to prevent stress and defensive biting.

Special Considerations:
• House singly—highly aggressive and cannibalistic
• Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity
• Use feeding tongs to prevent bites
• Keep substrate clean and moist to prevent skin infections

Taxonomy Note

Pacman Frogs belong to the genus Ceratophrys, part of the family Ceratophryidae, a group of robust, terrestrial frogs known for their ambush predation strategy. Members of this family are native to South America and are characterized by broad, flattened heads, large mouths, and strong hind limbs adapted for sudden lunges on prey. Ceratophrys cranwelli is one of the better-known species in the family, valued for its distinctive cranial “horns” and wide gape used for ambush hunting.

Genetics Note

Matcha (polygenic): Enhances soft, muted green tones with hints of olive or yellow undertones. Expression varies between individuals and typically intensifies with age and proper husbandry.