African Bullfrog lifespan
African bullfrogs usually live ten to fifteen years in captivity when kept with proper heat, humidity and food. Some males can reach twenty years or more, especially the large pixie frogs often seen at reptile expos.
I photographed an adult male and a bin of juveniles at the Tinley Park Reptile Expo in October 2025. The vendor had a large mature bullfrog displayed in a clear container and a separate tub full of tiny, striped babies. The signage listed the adult as the father of the juveniles. The vendor was Chicago Reptile House, a regular presence at reptile expos around Chicagoland and Northern Indiana.
How Long African Bullfrogs Live in Captivity and the Wild
Most captive males reach 15 to 20 years with proper care. Some keepers report individuals surpassing that range, especially large males. Wild bullfrogs usually live fewer years because they spend long periods underground during dry seasons and face more environmental risks.
African Bullfrog Size From Juvenile to Adult
Juveniles are small and striped, as you can see in the photo, and they grow quickly when well fed. Adult males are massive, round bodied, and much heavier than females, often reaching several pounds. Seeing both stages side by side at Tinley Park made the size difference very clear.
Their growth and longevity explain why they are considered a long term commitment in the reptile hobby.
African bullfrog species name
African bullfrogs are scientifically known as Pyxicephalus adspersus, often called pixie frogs in the pet trade.
I photographed an adult male and a bin of juveniles at the Tinley Park Reptile Expo in October 2025. The vendor had a large mature bullfrog displayed in a clear container and a separate tub full of tiny, striped babies. The signage listed the adult as the father of the juveniles. The vendor was Chicago Reptile House, a regular presence at reptile expos around Chicagoland and Northern Indiana.
How Long African Bullfrogs Live in Captivity and the Wild
Most captive males reach 15 to 20 years with proper care. Some keepers report individuals surpassing that range, especially large males. Wild bullfrogs usually live fewer years because they spend long periods underground during dry seasons and face more environmental risks.
African Bullfrog Size From Juvenile to Adult
Juveniles are small and striped, as you can see in the photo, and they grow quickly when well fed. Adult males are massive, round bodied, and much heavier than females, often reaching several pounds. Seeing both stages side by side at Tinley Park made the size difference very clear.
Their growth and longevity explain why they are considered a long term commitment in the reptile hobby.
African bullfrog species name
African bullfrogs are scientifically known as Pyxicephalus adspersus, often called pixie frogs in the pet trade. They are not the same a pacman frogs.
Corky Lorenz
November 28, 2025