Photo Disclaimer
Description
White’s Tree Frog (Blue Phase)
Scientific Name: Pelodryas caerulea
Common Name: White’s Tree Frog, Blue Phase White’s Tree Frog
Species Overview
Size: Adults typically reach 3 to 4.5 inches (7.5 to 11.5 cm), with females slightly larger.
Appearance: The Blue Phase White’s Tree Frog is a selectively bred visual form characterised by its enhanced blue and teal pigmentation. Individuals may appear powder blue, aqua, turquoise, or steel blue, often with subtle gradients across the dorsum. Some retain faint green undertones, while others appear nearly fully blue. Skin is thick, smooth, and slightly waxy. The frog’s body is rounded with prominent toe pads suited for climbing. Eyes typically remain golden or bronze with horizontal pupils, forming a striking contrast against the blue body tone.
Distribution: The wild species originates from Australia, Indonesia, and Papua New Guinea. The Blue Phase is a captive-bred colour expression and does not occur naturally in wild populations.
Habitat: In the wild, White’s Tree Frogs inhabit humid forests, woodland margins, riparian corridors, and sheltered areas around human structures. They seek elevated, shaded resting sites such as tree hollows, foliage, and crevices.
Behaviour: Calm, hardy, and tolerant of observation, these frogs are nocturnal and become active at night, climbing and feeding enthusiastically. They often perch in visible locations and vocalise in humid conditions. The species is known for its gentle temperament.
Captive Care
Enclosure: A single adult or small group thrives in an 18 × 18 × 24 inches (45 × 45 × 60 cm) enclosure, with larger groups benefiting from a 24 × 18 × 24 inches (60 × 45 × 60 cm) setup. Provide sturdy branches, cork rounds, vines, and ample foliage for climbing and shelter. Use a moisture-retentive but well-draining substrate such as coco fibre, soil blends, or sphagnum mixes to support moderate humidity without waterlogging. Include a large, shallow water basin, as these frogs regularly soak.
Temperature and Humidity:
Ambient temperature: 75 to 82°F (24 to 28°C)
Warm area: 84 to 86°F (29 to 30°C)
Night temperature: 70 to 74°F (21 to 23°C)
Humidity: 50 to 80%, supported by regular misting and strong ventilation.
Lighting: Provide low to moderate UVB (2 to 5%) with bright, diffused lighting. Blue pigmentation is typically most vivid under naturalistic full-spectrum lighting.
Diet: Offer medium to large insects such as crickets, roaches, black soldier fly larvae, hornworms, silkworms, and occasional waxworms. Supplement prey with calcium and multivitamins.
Behaviour in Captivity: Blue Phase White’s Tree Frogs adapt well to planted or semi-planted setups. They are active and visible at night, frequently climbing and perching. Although more tolerant of handling than most amphibians, handling should be limited to protect their sensitive skin.
Special Considerations:
• Handle only with wet, powder-free gloves to avoid damaging their skin.
• Maintain good airflow; stagnant humidity increases respiratory risks.
• Prevent chronic substrate saturation; provide humidity through misting rather than standing moisture.
• Ensure all climbing décor is secure and able to support their weight.
• Use only dechlorinated or RO water for misting and soaking.
• Monitor body condition closely, as this species is prone to obesity.
Taxonomy Note
Pelodryas caerulea is a member of the family Pelodryadidae and is closely related to other large Australasian tree frogs. The species is widely kept in captivity due to its docile nature and adaptability.
Genetics Note
Blue Phase (line-bred trait):
This selectively developed colour trait enhances blue and teal pigmentation by reducing the frog’s natural green-yellow chromatophores. Blue Phase individuals may display soft aqua to vivid turquoise coloration. This trait is not tied to a single documented gene; instead, it results from selective, multigenerational breeding that amplifies naturally occurring blue tones in Pelodryas caerulea.