Other common names: Argentinean Horned Frog, Ornate Horned Frog, Bell Horned Frog

Scientific name: Ceratophrys ornate

Life Expectancy and size: Males can reach around 4 inches and females get around 5-6 inches. They can live up to ten years with 6 or 7 being normal.

Habitat: Pacman frogs are native to Latin America where they live in damp leaf litter on the ground. They can live in a 5-10 gallon when they are little and when they reach full size a 15-20 gallon. Make sure that there are lots of hiding spots. You can plant things that are safe for your frog in the substrate to provide hide areas (a good plant to use is pothos). The substrate should be something that the frog can dig in like potting soil or peat moss. Also add a shallow water dish, and fill it so the water would be just under his mouth (although they are frogs they are not good swimmers). When cleaning the tank be sure not to use any chemical cleaning products. If you feel water is not good enough you can clean the tank with vinegar but be sure to rinse well with warm to hot water.

Temperament: Pacman frogs are popular because of their size and their unusually large appetite. If you are looking for an active or cuddly pet, these frogs are not for you. As with all frogs, they should only be handled when necessary. Their skin is very sensitive and any handling could damage its skin, which is used like a sponge to soak up oxygen and water. Their most endearing quality to their owners is their big grin that is as wide as they are! Pacman frogs are known to hibernate periodically through the year (although this is normally done around winter). You may notice your frog bury itself and not eating. Your frog's skin will harden, allowing water to be trapped under the skin. Do not disturb your frog during this time. Try to regulate the temperature in the aquarium and wait patiently for him to decide its time. When he comes out of hibernation, he will shed this hard skin and be ready to eat.

Light and Heating: They prefer temperatures in the low 80's during the day and in the 70's during the night. A UVB light may bring out your frogs colour or you can use a day light for reptiles. For night heat you can use a ceramic heat emitter as these don’t produce light or a “moon light” found in the reptile section of pet stores. The lighting should be kept on 12 hours and off 12 hours. Humidity should be kept at 75% for best health. You can provide an under tank heater (only with a glass aquarium, not plastic) to keep one side warm and one side cool.

Diet: The pacman frog eats crickets, earthworms, silkworms, butter worms (as treats), feeder fish and mice. These frogs are cannibalistic so house them alone. Remember to dust the crickets every feeding with calcium and every other feeding or less often with a multivitamin powder. Pacman frogs are known for their large appetites when compared to their size. Adult frogs should be fed 1-2 appropriately sized mice or feeder fish at least once per week. Pacman frogs have strong jaws and a wide tongue so their prey doesn't stand a chance.