Common names: Pacman Frog, Green Pacman, Argentine Horned Frog
Scientific name: Ceratophrys ornata
Origin: South America (Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay)
Size:
Males: ~2.5–4 inches
Females: ~4–7 inches (larger and bulkier)
Weight: Can reach 0.5–1 lb (females heavier)
Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity (with good care)
Body: Round, squat, and wide-mouthed (why they’re called Pacman)
Color: Bright green with darker green or brown markings (other morphs exist, but green is classic)
Mouth: Large, can open extremely wide to swallow prey nearly their own size
Skin: Moist, smooth, requires high humidity
Personality: Solitary, sit-and-wait ambush predators
Handling: Not recommended — they stress easily and have sensitive skin
Behavior: Burrow into substrate, stay still for long periods, strike quickly at prey
Bite: Strong jaws and sharp tooth-like ridges — can draw blood if they latch on
Enclosure size:
10–20 gallon tank for one adult (they are not active)
Do not house with other frogs — they will eat each other
Substrate: Coconut fiber, moss, or soil (kept damp for burrowing)
Temperature:
Day: 75–85°F
Night: ~70–75°F
Humidity: 60–80% (essential — mist daily)
Lighting: No UVB strictly required, but low UVB can support health
Type: Carnivore (voracious eater)
Food for juveniles: Crickets, roaches, small worms
Food for adults: Larger roaches, nightcrawlers, hornworms, occasional pinky mice (not too often — high fat)
Feeding frequency:
Juveniles: daily
Adults: every 2–3 days
Supplements: Calcium + D3 dusting on feeders
