Surinam horned toad facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ceratophrys |
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| Ceratophrys cranwelli | |
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Ceratophrys
Wied-Neuwied, 1824
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Ceratophrys aurita |
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Ceratophrys is a group of frogs also known as South American horned frogs or Pacman frogs. These frogs are famous for their very wide mouths, which look a lot like the hungry video game character Pac-Man. They belong to a larger group of frogs called the Leptodactylidae family.
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What are Pacman Frogs?
Pacman frogs are a type of amphibian that lives in South America. They are known for their round bodies and huge mouths. They often have bumpy skin and can be many different colors. Some are green, brown, or even albino (white with red eyes).
Where Do They Live?
These frogs live in the tropical forests of South America. You can find them in countries like Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay. They prefer to live in damp places, often hiding among leaves on the forest floor. They like areas near ponds or slow-moving water.
What Do They Eat?
Pacman frogs are excellent hunters. They are carnivores, which means they eat meat. They usually wait for their prey to come close. Then, they quickly open their huge mouths and swallow the prey whole! Their diet includes:
- Insects like crickets and worms
- Small rodents, such as mice
- Other frogs
- Small lizards
They are known for being very greedy eaters. Sometimes, they even try to eat things bigger than themselves!
How Big Do They Get?
The size of a Pacman frog depends on its species. Some can grow quite large. For example, the Argentine horned frog (Ceratophrys ornata) can grow up to 6 inches (15 cm) across. Females are usually bigger than males. Their round shape and large mouths make them look even bigger.
Life Cycle of a Pacman Frog
Like all frogs, Pacman frogs go through a metamorphosis. This means they change a lot as they grow.
From Egg to Tadpole
Pacman frogs lay their eggs in water. The eggs hatch into tiny tadpoles. These tadpoles live in the water and breathe with gills, just like fish. They mostly eat small plants and algae.
Growing into a Froglet
As tadpoles grow, they start to develop legs. Their tails begin to shrink, and their gills change into lungs. At this stage, they are called froglets. They start to look more like tiny frogs and can begin to live on land.
Becoming an Adult Frog
Once the tail is completely gone, the froglet becomes an adult frog. It can now live fully on land, though it still needs a moist environment. Adult Pacman frogs are ready to hunt and reproduce. They can live for several years, especially if cared for well in captivity.
Pacman Frogs as Pets
Many people keep Pacman frogs as pets because they are unique and interesting. They are relatively easy to care for, but they need the right environment.
Setting Up Their Home
Pet Pacman frogs need a terrarium with a moist substrate, like coconut fiber. They also need a shallow water dish to soak in. It's important to keep their environment warm and humid, similar to their natural habitat. They don't need a lot of space because they don't move around much.
Feeding Pet Frogs
Pet Pacman frogs eat a diet of insects like crickets, roaches, and worms. Sometimes, they can also eat small, pre-killed mice. It's important not to overfeed them, as they can become overweight.
Images for kids
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Ceratophrys ornata -
A Fantasy-coloured Pac-Man frog -
A young Pac-Man frog -
This Albino Pac-Man frog is six months old -
Ceratophrys cornuta
skeleton -
Ceratophrys cornuta
skeleton
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