Scientific Name: Theloderma horridum
Family: Rhacophoridae
Classification: Amphibia (Anura)
Toxicity Level: Non-Toxic
Origin: Southeast Asia (Southern Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo, Sumatra)
Adult Size: 4 – 5 cm (1.5 – 2.0 inches)
Lifespan: 5 – 8 years
Diet: Insectivore (Crickets, small roaches, moths)
The Thorny Wart Frog, also known as the Spiny Wart Frog, is a master of disguise belonging to the highly sought-after "Mossy Frog" genus (Theloderma). Unlike its bright green Vietnamese cousin (T. corticale), this species mimics rotting dark wood, burnt bark, or even bird droppings. Its skin is exceptionally rugose, covered in sharp, calcified warts and spines (tubercles) that give it a "thorny" texture. Their coloration is typically a blend of deep chocolate browns, blacks, and dark greys.
Notes: This is a cryptic, arboreal species that is rarely seen in the wild. They naturally inhabit water-filled tree hollows (phytotelmata) in primary rainforests. In captivity, they require a semi-aquatic setup with cork bark tubes or water sections to mimic tree holes. They are shy and nocturnal, relying entirely on their extreme camouflage to avoid detection during the day.
Why Source This Species:
Collector's Rarity: As noted in the listing (VERY RARE), this species is significantly harder to find in the trade than the common Vietnamese Mossy Frog. It is a "gem" for dedicated Theloderma collectors.
Extreme Texture: The sheer complexity of their skin texture is fascinating to observe close-up; they look more like a piece of forest debris than a living animal.
Compact Size: They are relatively small, allowing them to be housed comfortably in smaller, vertically oriented vivariums or bio-active setups without requiring massive space.
Malaysia
