What Species of Frog Sheds Its Skin?

All species of frogs shed their skin, although some shed more often than others, which can be a sign of disease. In dry environments, some frogs will hold their skin attached to retain water, but they will eventually shed when the water evaporates. Shedding may occur daily or up to once a week, depending on the environment.

  1. Causes

    • Frogs drink water not through their mouths but through their skin. A frog's skin is a Lycra-like material that absorbs water for nutrients, hydration and extra oxygen. A frog's strong skin also protects against predators and punctures. When frogs shed skin, the old, dry skin is replaced with new, shiny and water-absorbing skin. The new skin is better equipped to absorb fresh water.

    The Ritual

    • Frogs shed their skin so quickly that most pet owners do not notice the change. The frog begins by stretching, turning and then making a yawning motion, or a hiccup, to pull the skin away from the body and remove it entirely over its head. If the frog is healthy, the process occurs in a few seconds to a few minutes. Afterward, the frog eats the old skin. Frog skin contains antioxidants, proteins and supplemental hydration. If the frog is living in a tank, the excess skin may float to the surface of the tank and disappear in the tank's water filter.

    Excess Shedding

    • If a frog sheds its skin too often, this may be a sign of a problem in the environment, such as pollution or chemicals in the water, or a physical issue, such as skin parasites. If your pet frog exhibits signs of stress and excessive shedding, consider changing the water in the environment or contacting a veterinarian that specializes in amphibians.

    Schedule

    • A frog's skin is capable of both water retention and water absorption. In dry environments, some frogs retain their skin as a water cocoon, which can help keep a fresh water supply on hand until water is available. When the water runs out, the process repeats with the new skin. If no water is available, frogs may use their stomach seat pouches to absorb water from plants or logs through capillary absorption.