The White-lipped Tree Frog (Litoria infrafrenata) holds the title of the world's largest tree frog species and Australia's biggest native frog. Adults from the tropical far north of Queensland commonly reach 12 to 14 cm and are impressively robust animals with the distinctive white stripe along the lower lip that gives them their name. They are good-natured and hardy once established. With proper care they can live 10 to 15 years or more.
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. Both apply to every native frog without exception.
Enclosure
Due to their size, White-lipped Tree Frogs need a substantially proportioned enclosure. A minimum of around 60 x 45 x 90 cm suits a pair, with larger being preferable. Provide sturdy climbing branches (they are large enough to require solid perching structures), broad-leaved foliage, a moisture-retaining substrate, and a water dish deep enough to soak in but with easy entry and exit. Browse our terrarium range.
Temperature and Humidity
- Daytime temperature: 24 to 28°C
- Night: allow to drop, not below about 20°C
- Humidity: 60 to 80%
A tropical species that needs warmth and consistent humidity. Mist daily and allow partial drying between sessions. 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
Large insectivores with a substantial appetite. Offer appropriately sized live insects including larger crickets, woodies, and moths. Gut-load before use and dust with calcium and multivitamin at every second feeding.
- Juveniles: daily.
- Adults: 2 to 3 times per week.
Browse our live feeders.
Handling
Handle only when necessary with clean, wet, powder-free hands or gloves. Despite their size, these frogs stress under repeated handling. Keep sessions calm and brief.
Biosecurity
Never release captive frogs or their enclosure water into the environment. Quarantine new arrivals away from existing collections.
Breeding
Seasonal breeders triggered by cooling followed by simulated rainfall. Given their size, breeding pairs need a roomy setup with a substantial water area for egg laying. Tadpoles are raised in clean, well-oxygenated water and metamorphose into froglets over several weeks.
Quick Reference
| Parameter | Target |
|---|---|
| Adult size | 12 to 14 cm (world's largest tree frog) |
| Lifespan | 10 to 15+ years |
| Enclosure (pair) | 60 x 45 x 90 cm minimum |
| Temperature | 24 to 28°C |
| Night minimum | 20°C |
| Humidity | 60 to 80% |
| UVB | 2.0 only, 10 to 12 hrs/day |
| Water | Dechlorinated only |
| Feeding (adult) | 2 to 3 times per week |
Shop
- Terrariums and Reptile Supplies
- Low-level UVB Lighting
- Substrate and Plants
- Water Conditioner
- Heating
- 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 White-lipped Tree Frogs.
