Two frogs, one greenish and one brown, inside a glass enclosure on a green mat.
Close-up of a fish with orange skin and large eyes.
A large amphibian, possibly a toad, sitting on a sandy surface next to green plants, with a wet background visible.
A close-up of a toad resting on the ground, with a dark background and some green leaves visible on the left side.
Close-up of a large, spotted frog sitting on a person's hand indoors, with a view of a doorway and window in the background.

South American Horned Frogs

Pacman frogs

(genus Ceratophrys), also called South American horned frogs, are fascinating amphibians known for their round, wide-mouthed appearance that makes them look like the video game character Pac-Man.

General Overview

  • Scientific name: Ceratophrys ornata (most common species in captivity; others include C. cranwelli and C. cornuta).

  • Native range: South America (Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay).

  • Lifespan: 10–15 years in captivity with proper care.

  • Size: Females up to 6–7 inches across; males usually smaller.

Appearance

  • Large, round body with a big mouth covering most of the head.

  • Coloration varies—greens, browns, yellows, and patterns that provide camouflage on the forest floor.

  • Some species have little "horn-like" projections above the eyes.

Behavior & Natural History

  • Ambush predators: They sit still, half-buried in leaf litter or soil, waiting for prey to come close.

  • Diet: In the wild, they eat insects, small rodents, reptiles, and even other frogs. In captivity, they eat crickets, roaches, worms, and occasionally small feeder fish or pinky mice (for adults).

  • Temperament: Not very social; they tend to bite if threatened. Their bite is strong and can latch on.

  • Activity: Mostly nocturnal and spend much of their time buried, emerging to feed.

Captive Care Highlights

  • Enclosure: A 10–20 gallon tank is usually enough (they aren’t very active). Substrate should allow burrowing (like coco fiber).

  • Humidity: 60–80% humidity with a shallow water dish for soaking.

  • Temperature: Day: 75–85°F; Night: 70–75°F.

  • Handling: Not recommended—delicate skin absorbs oils/salts from hands, and they may bite.

Conservation & Fun Facts

  • Not endangered, but habitat loss affects wild populations.

  • Known as "horned frogs" because of the raised ridges above their eyes.

  • They can swallow prey nearly half their body size due to their elastic stomachs and powerful jaws.