The great barred frog (Mixophyes fasciolatus) is a large, powerful ground frog from the rainforests and wet forests of eastern Australia, reaching around 8cm with distinctive barred legs and gold-flecked eyes. They are strong jumpers and best kept as a display species with minimal handling.
Housing
Provide a spacious, humid floor-based set-up with a deep layer of moist leaf litter and substrate, hides and a shallow water area. Floor space matters more than height; secure the lid well as they jump powerfully.
Temperature & humidity
A cool, humid forest species - keep around 18-25C with consistently high humidity through misting and a damp substrate; avoid heat extremes.
Lighting
Low-level UVB (2.0, never 10.0) for around 10-12 hours is beneficial and supports live plants.
Water
Dechlorinate tap water (e.g. Repti Safe), change up to 50% at a time, keep it clean and provide easy exits from the water.
Feeding
A large frog with a big appetite - offer varied live insects, including larger crickets, woodies and worms, dusted with calcium/multivitamin about half the feeds. Juveniles daily; adults 2-3 times a week.
Breeding
Great barred frogs are seasonal breeders linked to flowing water and rain in their forest streams, which is difficult to replicate; breeding is best left to experienced keepers. Eggs are laid in or beside water and the tadpoles are raised in clean, cool, well-oxygenated water, taking some months to metamorphose.
Overview
A large, powerful rainforest ground frog reaching around 8cm, the great barred frog is best kept as a display species with minimal handling and can live many years with good care. Provide a deep, moist, humid floor set-up, a secure lid, and dechlorinated water. In Queensland a licence is required to keep frogs.
The team at Nicks Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium can help you set up the right frog enclosure, lighting and water treatment.
Recommended products
Set your frog up with gear from Nicks Aquarium Oceanarium Terrarium: terrariums, low-level UVB lighting, substrate & plants, water conditioner, heating (if needed), live feeders and calcium & supplements. A licence is required in Queensland to keep frogs - see our QLD licence guide.
