ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli)

Ornate Pacman Frog (Ceratophrys cranwelli): The Ultimate Pet Frog for Bold Displays

The ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli), also known as the Argentine Horned Frog, is a favorite among frog keepers for its bold colors, voracious appetite, and unique body shape. These frogs may look like something out of a cartoon, but they’re real, fascinating, and easy to care for—making them one of the most popular amphibians in the exotic pet trade.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned herper, the Ornate Pacman Frog is a low-maintenance amphibian with maximum personality. Ready to get one? You’ll find healthy specimens, full terrarium kits, and feeder insects at OneStopReptileShop.com, your trusted supplier for reptiles and amphibians.

Overview: What Makes the ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli)?

Native to Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay, and parts of Brazil, ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli) earned the nickname “Pacman frog” thanks to its round body and massive mouth. It’s not just for show—these frogs are ambush predators that’ll eat just about anything they can swallow.

Key Facts:

• Size: 4–6 inches (females are larger)

• Lifespan: 7–10 years with proper care

• Color Morphs: Green, brown, albino, strawberry, and more

• Behavior: Sedentary, terrestrial, solitary

• Temperament: Not aggressive, but best observed—not handled

They spend most of their time buried with just their eyes above the surface, waiting for prey. Their slow lifestyle makes them ideal for simple enclosures and beginner keepers.

Housing Your Ornate Pacman Frog

The ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli) doesn’t require a large enclosure since it rarely moves much. What it does need is a clean, humid, and secure space with plenty of soft substrate for burrowing.

Basic Setup Requirements:

• Enclosure Size: 10–20 gallon tank

• Substrate: Coconut fiber, moss, or bioactive soil (kept moist)

• Humidity: 60%–80% with daily misting

• Temperature: 75–85°F with a small heat mat on the side

• Lighting: Ambient room lighting; UVB optional but helpful

• Accessories: Water bowl (shallow), hideouts, leaf litter

Avoid deep water as these frogs are poor swimmers. Clean the substrate weekly and replace fully every 4–6 weeks to maintain hygiene.

Need a full setup? Check out ready-to-go Pacman Frog terrarium kits at OneStopReptileShop.com, where you’ll find all your supplies in one place.

Feeding the Ornate Pacman Frog

Feeding time is when this frog really shines. The ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli) will eat nearly any appropriately sized live prey—including crickets, roaches, and even pinky mice (occasionally, and only for adults).

Feeding Guidelines:

• Juveniles: Feed daily

• Adults: Feed 2–3 times per week

• Diet: Crickets, dubia roaches, nightcrawlers, hornworms, occasional mice

• Supplements: Dust prey with calcium 2–3 times/week and multivitamins weekly

Be careful not to overfeed, as Pacman Frogs can become obese. Always feed prey that’s smaller than the space between the frog’s eyes to avoid choking.

Handling and Temperament

ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli) are best admired, not handled. Their sensitive skin absorbs oils, lotions, and chemicals from human hands, which can be harmful. While not aggressive, they may bite if provoked—especially during feeding.

Behavior Notes:

• Will burrow and disappear for days or weeks

• Mostly inactive during the day

• Will vocalize softly at night, especially during rains or misting

• May snap at anything that moves—use tongs for feeding

These frogs are a great display species for frog lovers who enjoy watching behavior more than interaction.

Morphs and Variants

ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli)li comes in many stunning morphs. At OneStopReptileShop.com, we carry:

• Albino Pacman Frogs – Bright yellow with red eyes

• Strawberry Pacman Frogs – Pink/orange hues with unique patterning

• Green & Brown Wild-Type – Classic forest camo

• High Red Morphs – Vibrant reds and oranges

• Fantasy Morphs – Hybrids with exaggerated features

Each morph has the same care requirements but offers a unique look to match your preference.

Why Buy from OneStopReptileShop?

At OneStopReptileShop.com, we’re dedicated to delivering healthy, captive-bred Pacman Frogs and everything you need to care for them. We don’t just ship animals—we support our customers with knowledge, fast shipping, and reliable service.

Why Shop With Us:

• Live Arrival Guarantee

• Variety of morphs available

• Quality feeders and supplements

• Complete habitat kits

• Expert support and care guides

Final Thoughts

The ornate pacman frog (ceratophrys cranwelli)) is an ideal pet for anyone who enjoys exotic amphibians that are easy to care for and full of personality. Their bold colors, dramatic feeding response, and compact habitat needs make them perfect for apartments, offices, or herp collections of any size.

Ready to own a Pacman Frog? Head over to OneStopReptileShop.com to find your perfect frog, pick up a terrarium kit, and get expert care advice from the pros.