How to Tell a Male From a Female Albino African Frog

Nocturnal, aquatic, slimy and adorable are all adjectives that you could use to describe the African clawed frog. Xenopus laevis, as they're known scientifically, are hardy, long-lived and social creatures. They are big enough to be observed and studied readily, and small enough to fit in a medium-sized fish tank. If you have one of these frogs, or are considering owning one, chances are you will want to find the sex of the amphibian. While sexing reptiles and amphibians can be difficult, Xenopus laevis is surprisingly unambiguous when it comes to gender.

Things You'll Need

  • Flashlight
  • Magnifying glass
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Instructions

    • 1

      Compare the frog to another African clawed frog, if one is available. The male will be between 20 and 50 percent smaller than the female when mature. Note that Xenopi are considered mature after 10 months to one year.

    • 2

      Consider the shape of the frog in question. Males will be relatively skinny and will have a smooth backside. Females will be plump and pear-shaped and will possess a cloaca, which is a bump on her backside through which eggs and waste are passed. The cloaca can usually be observed with the naked eye but may require the use of a magnifying glass.

    • 3

      Listen to the frog. If you hear the creature vocalizing, it is very likely a male. Males vocalize often, especially in the evening hours, once reaching sexual maturity, and sound like a cricket chirping underwater. This behavior cannot be used as a distinguishing feature if there are multiple frogs in the same habitat because, unlike other frogs, the female Xenopus laevis will sing back to the male as part of the mating ritual.

    • 4

      Watch for eggs. The female frog may lay eggs without a male being present. The eggs will not be fertilized and she may eat some of them. Without another frog present, this is a sure sign of a female frog.