How to Breed Pacman Frogs

Pacman frogs, also called South American horned frogs, are among the easiest species of frog to care for. They are generally friendly toward people, though multiple frogs housed in a small enclosure will fight with each other. Breeding pacman frogs is not particularly difficult. However, because these frogs live up to 15 years in captivity, owners should think carefully before deciding to breed. It's vital to have adequate space for the babies.

Things You'll Need

  • Female pacman frog
  • Male pacman frog
  • Floating island
  • Aquarium
  • Water mister
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Reduce the temperature and humidity in your frogs' aquarium. This stimulates breeding behavior. Allow the frogs' moss to dry out, but be sure to continue to provide your frogs with constant access to water. The temperature in the aquarium should be approximately 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They should remain in this condition for 6 to 8 weeks, and most frogs will not eat during this time.

    • 2

      Put the frogs in a shallow aquarium. They should be able to climb out of the water onto land. Accomplish this by providing them with a floating island or simply placing a large tub of water in their enclosure. The frogs should be able to touch the bottom of the water, which allows them to steady themselves during breeding. Mist the frogs several times a day with a water mister. This simulates the rainy season and encourages mating.

    • 3

      Wait for the frogs to lay eggs. Pacman frogs usually lay their eggs four or five days after mating. When you notice eggs, remove the frogs from the aquarium and place them back in their usual enclosure. Eggs will hatch in two or three days.

    • 4

      Feed the tadpoles a carnivorous diet. They will eat tubifex worms, small mealworms, fruit flies and wax worms. Tadpoles may also try to eat each other, so it's a good idea to separate the tadpoles, placing each in its own container. Tadpoles metamorphose into frogs after about a month. When the tadpoles first begin to develop legs, provide them with a land area in their enclosure. This can be accomplished via a floating island or stack of rocks. When the tadpoles become adult frogs, they can be placed in a normal pacman enclosure.