The Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog (Litoria fallax) is one of Australia's smallest tree frogs, reaching only 2.5 to 3 cm as an adult. Bright green with flashes of orange in the thighs, it is an active, social frog that does well in small groups and makes an appealing display animal. Its small size makes it a display-only species: handling is not recommended. With proper care they can live 5 to 8 years.
In Queensland a licence is required to keep native frogs. See our Queensland Reptile Licence Guide.
Two Rules for All Frog Keeping
Always use dechlorinated water. Only use 2.0 UVB at most. Frogs absorb everything through their skin, and high-intensity UVB designed for desert reptiles will cause serious harm.
Enclosure
A tall, planted, and completely escape-proof vivarium is essential. These frogs are tiny enough to escape through very small gaps. A minimum of around 30 x 30 x 45 cm suits a small group of 4 to 6. Include fine branches, broad-leaved plants, and a moisture-retaining substrate. The water dish must be very shallow with a textured entry/exit surface so small individuals cannot get stuck. Browse our terrarium range.
Temperature and Humidity
- Daytime temperature: 22 to 28°C
- Night: allow to drop, not below about 18°C
- Humidity: 60 to 80%
Mist lightly once or twice daily. Browse our heating and thermostat range.
UVB Lighting
A 2.0 UVB tube on a 10 to 12 hour cycle. Browse our UVB lighting range.
Feeding
Insectivores. Their small mouths require small prey. Offer fruit flies, small pinhead crickets, small moths, and similarly tiny insects. Prey items must be smaller than the frog's head. Gut-load before use and dust with calcium and multivitamin at every second feeding.
- Juveniles: daily, tiny insects.
- Adults: daily or every second day with small quantities.
Browse our live feeders.
Handling
Not recommended. These are tiny, delicate animals easily injured by handling. Observe and enjoy as a display species.
Biosecurity
Never release captive frogs or their water into the environment. Quarantine new arrivals away from existing collections.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 2.5 to 3 cm |
| Lifespan | 5 to 8 years |
| Temperature | 22 to 28°C |
| Night minimum | 18°C |
| Humidity | 60 to 80% |
| UVB | 2.0 only, 10 to 12 hrs/day |
| Water | Dechlorinated, very shallow, textured exit |
| Prey size | Fruit flies, pinhead crickets (tiny insects only) |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Shop
- Terrariums and Reptile Supplies
- Low-level UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Plants
- Water Conditioner
- Live Feeders
- Calcium and Supplements
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. A Queensland wildlife keeper's licence is required to purchase and keep Eastern Dwarf Tree Frogs.
