What Are Mossy Frogs?
Mossy frogs belong to the genus Theloderma, a group of arboreal frogs native to Southeast Asia. Their name comes from their unique, bumpy skin texture and mottled green-and-black colouring, which gives them a moss-like appearance. This natural camouflage helps them avoid predators in the wild and makes them a visually stunning choice for amphibian keepers.
While Theloderma corticale is the most famous species, it is just one of many in this fascinating genus.
Types of Mossy Frogs in the UK Hobby
1. Theloderma corticale — Vietnamese Mossy Frog
- Origin: Northern Vietnam
- Size: 7–9 cm
- Colour: Green and black mottled camouflage
- Traits: Most common in the pet trade. Semi-aquatic and nocturnal.
- Personality: Shy but hardy. Known for staying motionless when threatened.
2. Theloderma horridum — Spiny Tree Frog
- Origin: Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand
- Size: 4–5 cm
- Colour: Dark green to brown with less pronounced bumps
- Traits: Much smaller and rarer in the hobby. Sometimes mistaken for juvenile T. corticale.
- Personality: Less bold; prefers more cover and higher humidity.
3. Theloderma asperum — Bird Poop Frog / Pied Warty Frog
- Origin: Northeast India, Myanmar, Thailand
- Size: 2.5–4 cm
- Colour: Black and white speckled pattern
- Traits: Tiny, arboreal, and known for their odd appearance
- Personality: Active climbers and less commonly bred
4. Theloderma stellatum — Spiny Vietnamese Mossy Frog
- Origin: Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam
- Size: 3.5–5 cm
- Colour: Green to brown with some star-shaped blotches
- Traits: Tree-dwelling, moderately rare in UK collections
- Personality: Bold, often visible on vertical structures
5. Theloderma bicolor — Two-Tone Mossy Frog
- Origin: Vietnam and Laos
- Size: 5–6.5 cm
- Colour: Two-tone body — darker back with lighter underparts
- Traits: Not as textured as corticale, but beautiful contrast
- Personality: Slightly more aquatic; requires secure water access
Key Differences Between Mossy Frog Species
| Feature | T. corticale | T. horridum | T. asperum | T. stellatum | T. bicolor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Size | 7–9 cm | 4–5 cm | 2.5–4 cm | 3.5–5 cm | 5–6.5 cm |
| Texture | Highly bumpy | Mildly bumpy | Smooth, speckled | Lightly bumpy | Moderate |
| Colour | Green/black | Brown/green | Black/white | Olive/green | Two-tone |
| Habitat | Semi-aquatic | Arboreal | Arboreal | Tree-dweller | Semi-aquatic |
| UK Availability | Common | Rare | Very rare | Rare | Rare |
Care Overview for Mossy Frogs in the UK
Regardless of species, most Theloderma frogs need the following:
- Humidity: 80–100%
- Temperature: 18–24°C (never above 26°C)
- Enclosure: Vertical space with branches, moss, bark, and water
- Lighting: UVB optional but beneficial; natural light cycle
- Feeding: Small crickets, roaches, isopods, springtails
Where to Find Mossy Frogs in the UK
Due to their popularity, T. corticale is the easiest species to find in the UK. Others, like T. asperum and T. horridum, may appear at specialist reptile expos or through private breeders.
Frogfather.co.uk offers captive-bred mossy frogs and can sometimes source rarer species. All animals are kept to the highest standards with welfare as a priority.
Conclusion
Mossy frogs are an exceptional addition to any amphibian collection. Whether you’re looking for the common but captivating Theloderma corticale, or hunting for a rarer species like asperum or stellatum, understanding their differences is key to successful keeping. With patience and the right setup, these frogs thrive and often reward you with their quirky behaviours and breathtaking appearance.
Visit Frogfather.co.uk to explore available stock, care resources, and updates on future availability of other Theloderma species.
