Platinum African Dwarf Frog - Hymenochirus Curtipes

Platinum African Dwarf Frog | A Rare and Peaceful Fully Aquatic Amphibian

The Platinum African Dwarf Frog (Hymenochirus curtipes) is a stunning and selectively bred variant of the Western African Dwarf Frog, distinguished by its striking white to pale platinum colouration — a dramatic contrast to the typical olive-brown of the standard form. Fully aquatic and endlessly entertaining, these charming little frogs spend their entire lives underwater, surfacing occasionally to breathe air with their lungs. Their quirky, playful behaviour and manageable size make them one of the most unique and rewarding additions to a freshwater community aquarium.

Not Your Average Aquarium Inhabitant

Platinum African Dwarf Frogs are known for their entertaining and often comical behaviour. They can frequently be spotted floating motionless near the surface in what hobbyists affectionately call the "zen position," darting suddenly across the tank, or awkwardly stuffing food into their mouths with their webbed feet. Males will even produce a soft humming or buzzing sound at night — a sign of a happy, healthy frog.

An Important Note — African Dwarf Frog vs. African Clawed Frog

These are frequently confused in the trade. The easiest way to tell them apart: African Dwarf Frogs have four fully webbed feet, while African Clawed Frogs have individual, clawed front toes. African Clawed Frogs grow much larger and will eat your fish — so the distinction matters. What we sell are true African Dwarf Frogs.

Platinum African Dwarf Frog Care Guide

Care at a Glance

• Scientific name: Hymenochirus curtipes
• Also known as: Platinum Dwarf Frog, White African Dwarf Frog, Western African Dwarf Frog
• Adult size: 1.5–2.5 inches (4–6 cm)
• Minimum tank size: 10 gallons for 2–3 frogs — longer tanks preferred, maximum depth of 12–18 inches so they can easily reach the surface to breathe
• Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
• pH: 6.5–7.8
• Best kept in groups of 2 or more
• Lifespan: 5–7 years with good care

Platinum African Dwarf Frog Tank Setup

A well-planted aquarium with gentle filtration, plenty of hiding spots, and easy access to the surface suits these frogs perfectly. Broad-leaved plants like Anubias provide ideal resting spots near the surface where frogs can catch a breath without expending too much energy. Fine sand or smooth substrate is recommended to protect their delicate skin. Avoid deep tanks — anything over 18 inches makes surfacing to breathe unnecessarily difficult. A sponge filter is ideal, as strong flow stresses these frogs and makes swimming to the surface harder.

A tight, gap-free lid is absolutely essential. African Dwarf Frogs are surprisingly capable escape artists and will find any opening in your tank cover — including gaps around filter tubes, heater cords, and airline tubing.

A Critical Note on Medications

African Dwarf Frogs are extremely sensitive to chemicals in the water, including many common fish medications. Copper-based treatments are lethal to them. If you ever need to medicate your tank, remove the frogs to a separate container first. Always use an amphibian-safe water conditioner when doing water changes.

Feeding Your Platinum African Dwarf Frog

These frogs have poor eyesight and are slow, clumsy eaters — food tossed into the tank will often go unnoticed. Target feeding is strongly recommended: use a turkey baster, tongs, or a pipette to deliver food directly in front of the frog. Offer frozen or live foods such as bloodworm, brine shrimp, daphnia, and white worms as a staple. High-quality sinking pellets formulated for aquatic frogs can also be offered. Remove any uneaten food promptly to keep water quality high.

Platinum African Dwarf Frog Tank Mates

• Small, peaceful community fish such as tetras, rasboras, and danios
• Corydoras and other peaceful bottom dwellers
• Snails — generally safe
• Shrimp — generally safe, though use caution with very small species
• Avoid fast, boisterous fish that will outcompete them for food
• Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species
• Never house with African Clawed Frogs