Scientific Name: Leptopelis vermiculatus.
Common Names: Usumbara Peacock Tree Frog, Usumbara Big Eyed Tree Frog, Amani Forest Treefrog, Vermiculated Tree Frog.
Distribution: Tanzania.
Size: Males 40-50mm, females 60-85mm.
Sexing: The males of this species may be heard calling this noise is a rather loud but brief "tok" repeated 2-3 times.
Colouration: There are 2 distinguishable colour phases. The first has a dorsum of bright green with black vermiculations, and the sides are marbled in black and white leading to a plain white ventral surface. The second phase has a deep brown dorsum with irregular forward pointing dark brown-black triangles, a dark bar or spot between the eyes, the sides are marbled as with the first colour phase.
Requirements: Minimum recommended terrarium size for 1-3 adult frogs would be 36x12x15" (l,w,h). These frogs are found in humid forests near water this must be replicated in the terrarium set-up. Suitable substrates include coco-humus, sterile topsoil, bark chips, composted bark, sedge peat and moss. Furnishings such as branches, canes, and cork bark of varying thickness should be arranged along with a number of fake or real sturdy plants to provide a number of climbing, perching, and hiding opportunities. A large water bowl should be provided at all times with clean de-chlorinated or spring water. The terrarium will need to be heated to a daytime temperature of 25-26°C with a drop to 20-22°C at night. Humidity levels should be around 70% daytime with a slight raise at night. UVB lighting of 2-5% may be provided for a 12-14hr period during the day.
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: A mixture of suitably sized insects including crickets, roaches, flies, moths, locusts, worms, grubs & caterpillars should be offered every 2-3 days for adults or daily for young frogs. A good calcium and vitamin supplement should be lightly dusted over the feeder insects at least once a week.
