Volcano clawed frog (Xenopus amieti) — 4cm

Overview

The Xenopus amieti, commonly known as the Volcano Clawed Frog or Amiet's Clawed Frog, is a tiny, fully aquatic African amphibian endemic to Cameroon. Rarely exceeding 4.5 cm in captivity, this fascinating species thrives in cool, clean water and makes a captivating species-only display. Its entirely aquatic lifestyle and manageable size have made it a favorite among enthusiasts of pet frogs UK. At Tropical Fish Co, we supply healthy juveniles that adapt well to aquarium life and reward attentive care with years of engaging, active behavior.

Appearance and Coloration

Xenopus amieti displays a compact, flattened body with smooth, olive-brown or gray skin. The body lacks scales and has a slightly translucent quality, especially in juveniles. The hind legs are well developed with prominent webbed feet and characteristic black claws. The front legs are small with unwebbed fingers used for feeding. The eyes are positioned on top of the head, an adaptation for watching for prey from below. Under subdued lighting, the skin may appear mottled with darker blotches. Juveniles at 4 cm show similar coloration to adults.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

This species is endemic to high-altitude grasslands, swamps, freshwater marshes, intermittent lakes, pastureland, and aquaculture ponds in Cameroon. Water conditions are typically cool (20–24 °C), neutral to slightly alkaline, and well-oxygenated. Xenopus amieti is fully aquatic, spending its entire life in water, and surfaces only to breathe air. During dry seasons, it may burrow into mud to survive until rains return. The natural environment is dimly lit with abundant aquatic vegetation and soft substrate. Replicating these cool, clean-water conditions at home is essential for long-term health.

Aquarium Setup and Décor

A 40-litre aquarium is suitable for a small group of three to five Xenopus amieti. Provide a secure lid, as these frogs are strong swimmers and will attempt to escape. Use gentle filtration to avoid strong currents, and provide soft substrate or bare bottom to prevent ingestion of gravel. Live or artificial plants such as Java fern, Anubias, and floating plants provide cover and resting surfaces. Subdued lighting is preferred. Avoid copper-based medications and treatments, as amphibians are highly sensitive to copper. Maintain excellent water quality with regular water changes.

Feeding and Nutrition

Xenopus amieti is carnivorous. Offer small live or frozen meaty foods such as bloodworms, daphnia, blackworms, brine shrimp, and appropriately sized sinking carnivore foods. Feed a varied, protein-rich diet in small portions two to three times per week. Avoid overfeeding, as uneaten food can degrade water quality. These frogs are opportunistic feeders and will consume anything that fits in their mouths, including very small tankmates. Feed directly to the frogs to ensure they receive adequate nutrition.

Behaviour and Social Structure

These frogs are fully aquatic and spend their entire lives submerged, surfacing only to breathe air. They are primarily bottom-dwellers, using their front legs to shovel food into their mouths. Xenopus amieti is peaceful and can be kept in small same-species groups, though competition for food can be intense. They are most active at dawn and dusk, though they will forage throughout the day if food is available. Compared to larger Xenopus species, X. amieti is more delicate and less boisterous.

Compatible Tank Mates

Best kept in a same-species group or species-only setup. Avoid housing with aggressive fish, fin-nipping fish, large predatory fish, small fish or shrimp that may be eaten, or highly active species that stress them. These frogs are sensitive to harassment and competition, so tankmates are generally not recommended. If kept with fish, choose only peaceful, slow-moving species too large to be eaten and too small to eat the frogs.

Breeding in the Aquarium

Breeding is usually triggered by seasonal changes, cooler water, and increased feeding. Males produce a characteristic clicking sound underwater to attract females. Eggs are laid in water and tadpoles are fully aquatic, grazing on algae and biofilm before metamorphosing into froglets. Provide fine-leaved plants or spawning mops for egg attachment. Remove adults after spawning to prevent predation. Tadpoles require specialized care, including algae-based foods and regular water changes. Breeding can be challenging and requires careful water management.

Why Buy from Tropical Fish Co

At Tropical Fish Co, every Volcano Clawed Frog is quarantined, health-checked, and acclimated to UK water conditions before dispatch. We source our amphibians from reputable suppliers who prioritize ethical collection and sustainable practices. Our livestock arrives in insulated packaging with heat packs during colder months, ensuring safe transit. With decades of combined fishkeeping experience, our team is available to answer questions about care, compatibility, and tank setup. Whether you're building a species-only display or expanding an established collection, we're here to support your success. Order with confidence and enjoy premium aquatic amphibians delivered to your door.