The “Upside Down Frog” is a nickname for a group of small, colorful amphibians from Africa, also known as African Reed Frogs. These amphibians are popular in the pet trade and recognized for their vibrant patterns and energetic nighttime activity. The name points not to their everyday posture but to a specific behavior related to reproduction.
The Reason for the “Upside Down” Name
The nickname “Upside Down Frog” originates from the reproductive strategy of certain species within this group, particularly those in the genus Afrixalus. Unlike many frogs that lay eggs directly in water, these females deposit their eggs on leaves or reeds hanging over a pond or stream.
After laying a small clutch of eggs, the female folds the leaf around them. She uses her body and legs to create a protective pocket for the developing embryos, sealing the envelope with a glue-like substance that protects the eggs from predators and dehydration. Performing these maneuvers often requires her to hang from the leaf at odd angles, including completely upside down, giving rise to the memorable name.
Natural Habitat and Characteristics
African Reed Frogs are native to the savannas, forests, and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. They are found near slow-moving or standing water bodies like marshes, ponds, and streams, as these environments provide the vegetation they rely on for shelter and reproduction.
These are small amphibians, with most species reaching about 1.5 inches in length. Their coloration is diverse, ranging from muddy browns and tans in the leaf-folding species to greens, yellows, and patterns of stripes and spots in others, such as the Painted Reed Frog (Hyperolius marmoratus). This variation helps them camouflage among the reeds and foliage.
Keeping the Upside Down Frog as a Pet
Because of their small size and active nature, a vertically oriented enclosure is recommended. A 20-gallon tank can house a small group and should be filled with plenty of foliage, both live and artificial, to replicate their climbing habitat. Plants like pothos and Sansevieria are good choices for a bioactive setup.
The ambient temperature should be kept between 70 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit, with a heat lamp creating a basking spot of 85 to 90 degrees. High humidity is necessary and can be maintained by misting the terrarium daily. Their diet in captivity consists of small insects like quarter-inch crickets and flightless fruit flies, which should be dusted with a calcium and vitamin supplement.