Green Tree Frog Subspecies and Related Species

Green tree frog is a common name applied to several distinct species of tree frogs found in different parts of the world. While there are no formally recognized subspecies within the Australian green tree frog (Ranoidea caerulea, formerly Litoria caerulea), recent research and taxonomy reveal it is part of a species complex, and there are closely related species and regional variants worth noting.

Australian Green Tree Frog (Ranoidea caerulea)

  • Distribution: Native to Australia and New Guinea; introduced populations in the US and New Zealand (now extinct in NZ).
  • Description: Large, robust frog reaching up to 11.5–12 cm in length. Color ranges from brownish or greyish-green to bright emerald green, sometimes with white spots on the back. The belly is white, and the iris is gold with a horizontal pupil.
  • Distinctive Features: Fatty ridge over the eye, moderately large parotoid gland, large adhesive toe discs, fingers about one-third webbed, toes nearly three-quarters webbed. Males have a grey, wrinkled vocal sac; females have a white throat.
  • Regional Variation: Some northern populations show yellow coloring on fingers, toes, webbing, and undersurfaces of limbs.
  • Similar Species:
    • Ranoidea splendida (Magnificent tree frog): Larger parotoid glands, yellow speckling, restricted to north-western Australia.
    • Nyctimystes infrafrenatus (White-lipped/giant tree frog): Distinct white stripe along the jaw and shoulder.
    • Litoria cavernicola and Litoria chloris: Differ in iris color and skin folds.

Species Complex and Recent Discoveries

  • A 2020 study revealed that Litoria caerulea is actually a species complex, meaning what was thought to be a single species includes several cryptic species. One of these is Litoria mira, endemic to New Guinea. This suggests there may be additional, yet undescribed, species within the group, but these are not formally recognized as subspecies.

Other Frogs Commonly Called “Green Tree Frog”

Common NameScientific NameRegionKey Features
American Green Tree FrogHyla cinereaUSA (Southeast)Smaller, less vivid green, white/cream stripe along side
Emerald Green Tree FrogRhacophorus prasinatusTaiwanBright green, gliding ability
Dainty Green Tree FrogRanoidea gracilentaEastern AustraliaSlender, up to 4.5 cm, rich green, yellow belly, orange eyes
  • These are separate species, not subspecies of the Australian green tree frog.

Summary Table: Australian Green Tree Frog and Related Species

Species NameRangeSizeDistinguishing Features
Ranoidea caeruleaAustralia, New GuineaUp to 12 cmLarge, green, sometimes white spots, gold iris
Ranoidea splendidaNW AustraliaSimilarLarge parotoid glands, yellow speckling
Nyctimystes infrafrenatusN. Australia, PNGLargerWhite stripe along jaw/shoulder
Ranoidea gracilentaE. AustraliaUp to 4.5 cmSlender, orange eyes, yellow belly

Key Points

  • There are no formally recognized subspecies of the Australian green tree frog (Ranoidea caerulea), but it is part of a species complex, and regional color variations exist.
  • The term “green tree frog” is used for several distinct species worldwide, each with different features and distributions.
  • Recent research hints at cryptic diversity within the Ranoidea caerulea group, but these are not yet classified as subspecies.

If you are seeking information on a specific “green tree frog” in a particular region, it is important to refer to the scientific name to avoid confusion, as several unrelated species share this common name.

Green Tree Frog Enclosure Requirements

Green Tree Frog Enclosure Requirements

Enclosure Size and Type

  • For a single green tree frog, the minimum recommended enclosure size is a 60cm cube (60cm x 60cm x 60cm).
  • For 3–4 frogs, a larger enclosure of at least 60cm long x 100cm high x 60cm wide is advised.
  • Enclosures should be glass or water-resistant material, as frogs require high humidity and water features.
  • The enclosure must be tall, as green tree frogs are arboreal and need vertical space for climbing.

Ventilation and Security

  • Use a secure mesh lid or screen top to provide good ventilation and prevent escapes, as frogs are excellent climbers and can squeeze through small gaps.
  • Ensure all openings are tightly sealed.

Substrate

  • Use moisture-retaining substrates such as coconut fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss, or coarse orchid bark.
  • Substrate should be at least 5cm deep and kept slightly moist to maintain humidity.
  • Avoid small gravel or bark pieces that could be ingested, as well as artificial turf or reptile carpet, which can damage sensitive skin.
  • Include a drainage layer (e.g., hydroballs or filter mats) beneath the substrate to prevent waterlogging and maintain proper moisture.

Water and Humidity

  • Provide a shallow water dish for soaking and swimming; change water daily to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Mist the enclosure daily with filtered or dechlorinated water to maintain a humid environment and allow frogs to drink.
  • Maintain high humidity, but avoid waterlogging the substrate.

Temperature and Heating

  • Ideal temperature range: 20–25°C (68–77°F).
  • Provide a heat source (heat pad or ceramic heat lamp) controlled by a thermostat to maintain stable temperatures.
  • Place the heat source at one end to create a temperature gradient, allowing frogs to thermoregulate.
  • If using a heat lamp, ensure it is fitted outside the enclosure or shielded to prevent burns.

Lighting

  • Install a UV-B light tube designed for reptiles/amphibians to support vitamin D3 synthesis and overall health.
  • Use a ceramic heat lamp if additional heat is needed.
  • Lighting should follow a natural day/night cycle: 10–12 hours of light per day, controlled by a timer.
  • Switch off lights at night to replicate natural conditions.

Furnishings and Enrichment

  • Provide multiple climbing structures: branches, logs, vines, cork bark, and bamboo poles for vertical movement.
  • Include both real and artificial broad-leafed plants for climbing and hiding; live plants also help maintain humidity and air quality.
  • Add hiding spots: logs, plant pots, PVC pipes, and ornamental rocks.
  • All furnishings must be smooth, stable, and easy to clean to prevent injuries and facilitate maintenance.

Additional Notes

  • Enclosure must have both a water area for soaking and a dry area for sitting, feeding, and climbing.
  • Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to prevent mold and bacterial growth.
  • Always use filtered or dechlorinated water for misting and water dishes to avoid exposing frogs to harmful chemicals.

Summary Table: Key Requirements

FeatureRequirement/Recommendation
Size (single frog)60cm x 60cm x 60cm minimum
Size (3–4 frogs)60cm x 100cm x 60cm minimum
MaterialGlass or water-resistant, well-ventilated
SubstrateMoisture-retaining (coco fiber, sphagnum moss, peat moss)
WaterShallow dish, changed daily; mist enclosure daily
Temperature20–25°C (68–77°F), with gradient
HeatingHeat pad or ceramic lamp, thermostat-controlled
LightingUV-B tube, 10–12 hours/day; off at night
HumidityHigh; daily misting
FurnishingsClimbing branches, logs, vines, plants, hiding spots
SecuritySecure mesh lid, escape-proof

This setup will help ensure your green tree frogs remain healthy, active, and stress-free in captivity.