Scientific Name: Afrixalus dorsalis.
Common Names: Striped Spiny Reed Frog.
Distribution: Cameroon & Angola.
Size: 2.5 - 3cm.
Sexing: The males of this species may be heard calling.
Colouration: Typically the dorsal surface is a dark brown with broad light brown dorsolateral stripes starting on top of the snout and continuing to the groin.
Requirements: These small agile frogs originate from the bushlands of Western Africa. A 24x12x15" tank would be adequate for a group of 6 adults. They require a bushland / savannah border type set-up with a substrate of bark chips, topsoil or moss. Furnishings such as branches of various thickness, cork bark and sturdy thin-leafed grass like plants can be arranged to provide a number of climbing, perching and hiding places. A small water bowl must be provided with clean de-chlorinated or spring water. Humidity should be kept between 60-70% with a slight raise at night and the tank will need to be heated to a daytime temperature of 24 - 28°C with a drop at night to 20 - 22°C. UVB lighting of 2-10% may be provided for a 12-14hr period during the day but if a good supplemented diet is provided then UVB lighting is optional.
Maintenance: Water will need changing daily to avoid the build up of ammonia and bacteria. Whilst changing the water it is a good idea to spot clean the tank and remove, clean, and replace any soiled items. At least once a month the entire terrarium and it's contents should be striped, cleaned, and sterilized using an amphibian friendly disinfectant.
Feeding: For adults a mixture of suitably sized insects including crickets, flies, and wax moth should be fed every two-three days. A calcium and vitamin supplement should be used once weekly. Young frogs will take hatchling crickets and fruitflies, these should be fed every day and a calcium and vitamin supplement used two-three times a week.
