The Northern Dwarf Tree Frog (Litoria bicolor) is a tiny, lively tropical species from northern Australia. Very similar in appearance to the Eastern Dwarf Tree Frog, it comes from a warmer, more consistently tropical climate. Adults reach around 2.5 to 3 cm. Active and social, they do well in small groups and are a display species only. 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.
Enclosure
A tall, planted and completely escape-proof vivarium. A minimum of around 30 x 30 x 45 cm for a small group. Include fine branches, broad-leaved plants, and a moisture-retaining substrate. The water dish must be very shallow with a textured exit surface so small individuals cannot get stuck. Browse our terrarium range.
Temperature and Humidity
- Daytime temperature: 24 to 28°C (warmer than the Eastern Dwarf Frog, reflecting its tropical origin)
- Night: allow to drop, not below about 20°C
- Humidity: 65 to 80%
Mist lightly once or twice daily. In most Queensland homes this species needs some form of gentle background heat in cooler months. 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 requiring small prey. Offer fruit flies, small pinhead crickets, small moths, and similarly tiny insects. Gut-load before use and dust with calcium and multivitamin at every second feeding.
- Juveniles: daily.
- Adults: daily or every second day with small quantities.
Browse our live feeders.
Handling
Not recommended. These are tiny, delicate animals. Observe 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 | 24 to 28°C |
| Night minimum | 20°C |
| Humidity | 65 to 80% |
| UVB | 2.0 only, 10 to 12 hrs/day |
| Water | Dechlorinated, very shallow |
| Prey size | Fruit flies, pinhead crickets |
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 Northern Dwarf Tree Frogs.
