Diseases of African Grey Frogs

The African Grey Frog, Chiromantis xerampelina, is a small tree frog. This frog is susceptible to diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, as well as stress, improper diet, unsanitary conditions and old age. Frogs caught in the wild are far more likely to suffer disease and early death than frogs bred in captivity, and should never be selected as pets.

  1. Batrachochytrium Dendrobatidis

    • Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis is the chytrid fungus currently wiping out frog populations worldwide. Infection begins with cysts underneath the skin and leads to a disease called chytridiomycosis that breaks the skin down, causing injury and secondary infections. It affects tadpoles and adults and is highly contagious among amphibians.

    Ranavirus

    • Ranavirus causes lethargy, emaciation, hemorrhage, ulceration and breakdown of extremities. Infection is more common in stagnant water and the disease is highly contagious between frogs. It affects tadpoles and adults and is most deadly to frogs in metamorphosis.

    Saprolegnia Ferax

    • Saprolegnia ferax is a parasitic mold that causes white fungus disease in tadpoles and young frogs. A furry, white coating grows into the skin and is usually fatal.

    Red Leg Disease

    • Red leg disease is a bacterial infection caused by many different species of bacteria. It eats away at the limbs, causing open lesions, tissue decay and death. If recognized early, red leg disease can be successfully cured with antibiotics and sanitation. Most red leg disease is caused by overcrowding, unhygienic conditions and stress.

    Husbandry Diseases

    • Diseases caused by improper or inadequate food, dirty water, ammonia build up, inadequate temperature and lighting, lack of hygiene and overcrowding are called husbandry diseases. They include nutrient deficiencies and infections that arise when the immune system is compromised and normal microorganisms grow out of control. They are prevented by proper care, cleaning and diet.

    Old Age Diseases

    • Like human beings, frogs' systems and organs may break down as they grow old. We do not know very much about the natural life span of frogs, but the average among species appears to be around 15 years. Most pet frogs die much sooner from stress and inadequate care. Signs of organ breakdown from advanced age include edema (fluid build up beneath the skin), difficulty shedding and loss of extremities with sheds.

    Parasitic Worms

    • Many worms parasitize frogs. Trematode worms have become fairly common and cause deformities in frogs' limbs. Tapeworms are picked up from other household pets like cats and dogs. Tapeworms grow in numerous locations within the frog, causing deformity and death. Roundworms are also dangerous, and can block a frog's intestines. Unwillingness to eat is a sign of worm infestation.

    Warnings

    • Most frog diseases are highly contagious between amphibians. Keep new frogs away from other pets for at least four weeks and watch closely for signs of disease. Take sick frogs to an experienced herpetological veterinarian. Seek out the latest information on proper care for your species of frog. Do not allow your frog near wild frogs or natural bodies of water. Human secretions can damage frog skin. Wear protective gloves if you must handle your frog.