A Guide To Whites Tree Frog Morphs And Variations

Whites tree frogs are one of the most popular pet frogs, and for good reason. These charismatic amphibians have unique color variations called morphs that make them stand out. If you’re considering getting a whites tree frog, you probably want to know about all the different morphs available.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: The most common whites tree frog morphs are normal, blue-eyed lucy, albino, azure, mint, and calico or pied. Each morph has distinct colors and patterns ranging from solid green to pale blue or white.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about whites tree frog morphs. We’ll discuss the different types of morphs, what causes the color variations, how much the morphs cost, their care requirements, and tips for choosing your new frog friend.

Normal and Wild Type Morph

Appearance and traits

The normal and wild type morph of the whites tree frog is considered the “classic” look of this species. It features a light green or mint green background color with irregular dark green splotches and spots across the back and legs. The belly is white or cream colored. The toes are orange or yellow.

The eyes are gold with horizontal pupils.

Some key traits of the normal morph include:

• Light green base color with dark green mottling
• White or cream belly
• Orange/yellow toes
• Golden eyes with horizontal pupils
• Moderate size, reaching 2-3 inches as adults
• Smooth skin

The wild type morph is almost identical to the normal morph in appearance. It exhibits the classic traits found in wild populations of whites tree frogs in Australia and New Guinea. The only difference may be that wild caught individuals show more vivid coloration.

Price and availability

The normal and wild type whites tree frog is quite common in the pet trade. Hatchlings can be purchased for $20 to $40 from breeders and retailers. Adult frogs range from $30 to $60 on average.

Here are some points on pricing and availability:

• Lowest cost option
• Readily available year-round from breeders and online stores
• Pet stores commonly carry normal/wild type frogs
• Pricing may fluctuate based on age, size, and source
• Wild caught specimens are less common and more expensive

Care

Caring for the normal and wild morphs is the same as for any other whites tree frog. Here are some key care guidelines:

• Enclosure size – 10+ gallon tank for one adult frog
• Temperature – 68-80°F
• Humidity – 60-80%
• Substrate – eco earth, sphagnum moss
• Decor – live or artificial plants, sticks, hides
• Lighting – NO UVB required, provide 12 hours of daylight
• Diet – crickets, worms, roaches, occasionally small mice

A proper setup with heat, humidity, hiding spots, and a varied diet are essential to keeping any morph of whites tree frog healthy and thriving in captivity.

Key care differences from other morphs:

• Doesn’t require specialized UVB lighting like albino frogs
• No special temperature or humidity needs
• Hardier than more delicate morphs

Albino Morph

Appearance and traits

The albino morph of the whites tree frog is a unique color variant that exhibits little to no pigmentation. This results in frogs that are bright white or yellowish in color. Some key traits of the albino morph include:

• Lack of melanin pigmentation, resulting in little to no coloration
• Bright white, pale yellow, or orange overall body color
• Red or pink eyes due to lack of pigment
• Prone to sunburn and eye damage without proper UV protection
• Commonly have shorter lifespans and increased health issues

The lack of melanin is caused by a genetic mutation that inhibits the frog’s ability to produce this dark pigment. Without melanin, the frog cannot develop the green and brown hues commonly seen in normal whites tree frogs.

Their vibrant albino appearance makes them highly sought after in the pet trade.

Price and availability

Due to the unique genetics, albino whites tree frogs are more expensive and harder to find than the normal color morphs. Here’s an overview of pricing and availability:

• Average Cost: $75 to $150 per frog, occasionally over $200 for rare specimens
• Modestly Available: Only a small percentage of each captive bred clutch will exhibit albinism
• Mostly Sold as Juveniles: Young frogs are easier to positively identify as albino
• Few Adult Breeders: Mature albino frogs are rare and command premium pricing

Reputable breeders who work with these frogs may only produce a handful of albino specimens each year. Demand often exceeds supply for these uniquely colored amphibians. Patience and persistence is needed to acquire albino whites tree frogs.

Care

While their appearance differs dramatically, albino whites tree frogs have the same general care requirements as normal morphs. A few considerations for optimal health include:

• Low UVB lighting: Prevents sunburns and eye damage
• Varied diet: Supplements may help counteract health issues
• Cool conditions: Temperatures over 85°F can cause heat stress
• Moist substrate: Helps prevent dehydration of their sensitive skin
• Minimal handling: Their skin is extra delicate and prone to damage

With attentive care, albino whites tree frogs can live full, healthy lives comparable to their normally-pigmented counterparts. Their striking appearance and rarity helps make up for the extra effort required to keep them thriving.

Azure Morph

Appearance and traits

The Azure morph is a striking blue and white variation of the common Whites tree frog. It features powder blue skin with bright white or yellow splotches and spots. The blue color can range from a pale periwinkle to a vivid electric blue.

The white spots are scattered across the back and legs, providing high contrast against the blue background. The azure morph was first discovered in 2012 and is still relatively new and rare in the pet trade.

Some key traits of the Azure whites tree frog include:

• Bright blue skin ranging from pale to electric blue
• White or yellow irregular spotting across back and legs
• Toe pads that range from orange to bright red
• Horizontal pupils with black/brown eyes
• Smooth moist skin
• Horizontal skin folds across the back and sides
• Grows to about 2.5-4 inches in size

Price and availability

The azure morph is still considered quite rare and expensive compared to common color variations of the whites tree frog. Prices range from $150-$500 per individual, depending on age, size, color intensity and breeder reputation.

Availability is still limited, but increasing as demand grows and more breeders work with this morph. The best places to find azure whites tree frogs for sale include:

• Specialty reptile expos and shows
• Online reptile retailers like Backwater Reptiles, Josh’s Frogs, etc.
• Individual breeder websites and waitlists

It’s important to buy captive bred azure frogs, as wild caught specimens may have parasites or illnesses. Reputable online retailers and breeders should provide captive bred lineage documentation.

Care

Caring for an azure whites tree frog is similar to caring for the common green and brown color morphs. Some important care guidelines include:

Providing plenty of climbing space, humidity, and proper heating is especially important. The azure morph does not have increased care requirements compared to other tree frogs. With proper care, they can live 5-10 years in captivity.

Blue-Eyed Lucy Morph

Appearance and traits

The Blue-Eyed Lucy morph of the whites tree frog is a unique and stunning variety. As the name suggests, Blue-Eyed Lucys have bright blue eyes rather than the typical red or orange eyes seen in normal whites tree frogs. Their eyes are so vibrantly blue that they almost seem to glow.

These gorgeous blue peepers are caused by a lack of pigment.

In addition to their signature eyes, Blue-Eyed Lucys lack all dark pigmentation on their bodies. Their skin has a translucent, ghostly white appearance. You can see their internal organs and blood vessels right through their pale skin.

The contrast of the see-through white skin and electric blue eyes makes Blue-Eyed Lucys a real showstopper.

Price and availability

Because of their incredible rare coloration, Blue-Eyed Lucy frogs demand a high price. Expect to pay between $125-$350 for a juvenile, depending on the breeder and frog’s size. They are harder to find than wild-type whites tree frogs but are bred by specialist amphibian breeders.

Patience is key when trying to buy a Blue-Eyed Lucy, as they may be available only a few times per year after breeding. Your best bet is to reach out to niche breeders directly and get on their waiting list for upcoming litters.

Social media groups dedicated to frog breeders, such as Frog Classifieds on Facebook, are a great way to network with reputable Blue-Eyed Lucy providers.

Care

Caring for these unique frogs is similar to that of any whites tree frog. Provide an adequately sized, humid vivarium around 18-24 inches tall. Use a substrate that hold humidity well, like eco earth or sphagnum moss. Add ample foliage for climbing and hiding opportunities.

Maintain a temperature between 68-80° Fahrenheit and mist the tank daily to keep humidity around 60-80%. Provide a large, shallow water dish that allows the frog to soak if desired. Clean the tank thoroughly once per week by replacing about 30% of the old substrate.

Feed a variety of gutloaded and dusted feeder insects like crickets, worms, and occasional small roaches. Variety is important for these voracious amphibian eaters! With the proper setup and care regimen, Blue-Eyed Lucys can live over 5 years in captivity.

Their albinistic features require special considerations as well. Avoid bright lights that may damage their sensitive eyes and skin. Many keepers use lower wattage bulbs or LED lighting to safely illuminate Blue-Eyed Lucy enclosures.

Maximum cage temperatures should stay under 80°F to prevent overheating due to their inability to produce enough melanin.

Mint Morph

Appearance and traits

The mint morph of the whites tree frog is a beautiful light green color. They have a pale green or minty hue on their backs and sides, with a white or very light yellow underside. Their toes are also often yellowish in color. The mint morph was first discovered in 2012 in a captive breeding program.

It is believed to be a simple recessive trait.

This morph results in frogs that are a pastel green color rather than the typical deeper greens or brownish colorations seen in wild populations. The light coloration gives them an almost ethereal appearance. They still have the typical large eyes and adhesive toe pads of other whites tree frogs.

Price and availability

The mint morph is still quite rare in the pet trade, but is increasing in availability as breeders work with this morph. Prices range from $75 to over $200 depending on age and seller. Mint frogs are harder to find than wild-type frogs which typically cost $30-$60.

Breeders often charge more for younger, unsexed frogs. Older mint frogs that have been sexed generally range from $100 to $150. Due to small clutch sizes, even established breeders may only have a few mint frogs available at a time.

Care

Caring for the mint morph is the same as caring for any other whites tree frog. Here are some key care guidelines:

• Enclosure size – adults need a minimum of 20 gallons; provide ample climbing branches
• Temperature – 60-80°F; provide a heat lamp and cool side
• Humidity – 65-85%; use a damp substrate and mist daily
• Lighting – Provide UVB lighting for 12 hours per day
• Feeding – Crickets, roaches, moths; dust with calcium/vitamin D3 supplement

Pied/Calico Morph

Appearance and traits

The Pied morph of the whites tree frog displays an intricate patchwork of colors across its body. The base color is typically a light tan or brown, with bold black and white splotches scattered randomly across the back and legs.

No two pied frogs look exactly alike – each has its own unique calico pattern. Some may have larger blotches while others display smaller speckles. The belly is often white or cream colored with minimal dark markings. Their striking and variable appearance is the defining feature of this morph.

Genetically, the Pied morph results from a recessive mutation that causes random distribution of melanin pigment as the frog develops. The vivid patches of black, brown, tan and white make them stand out from ordinary green and brown tree frogs.

Visually they resemble a piebald ball python or a calico cat. While color patterns vary significantly, most Pied frogs will retain their distinct markings throughout life.

Price and availability

The Pied morph was first discovered in the pet trade in the early 2000s and has since become established in captive breeding projects. Availability fluctuates based on seasonal breeding trends. They are usually readily available from specialty amphibian breeders and vendors.

Pied frogs typically cost between $30 to $60 each when purchased from a reputable online retailer. Rare or uniquely patterned specimens can fetch over $100. Prices are generally highest during peak demand in the spring and summer months. Consider adoption if seeking a pet.

Since Pied tree frogs are bred exclusively in captivity, their genetic diversity depends on responsible breeding practices. When acquiring one, be sure to ask about its origin and lineage. Support retailers who focus on captive-bred amphibians.

Care

Caring for a Pied morph whites tree frog is essentially the same as caring for a normal-colored frog. No special accommodations are needed to meet their basic husbandry needs.

• Provide a screened, tall vivarium with ample ventilation and humidity between 50-80%. Substrate should retain some moisture while draining well.
• Day temps of 75-85°F are needed with a nighttime drop to 65-75°F. Provide a heat lamp and UVA/UVB lighting on a 12-14 hour cycle.
• Feed a varied diet including crickets, worms, small roaches, moths and flies. Use vitamin supplements and gutload feeder insects.
• Mist regularly and provide a water bowl or drip system to keep humidity high. >65% is ideal.

Additional Rare Morphs

Honey hybino

The honey hybino morph results from the combination of the hybino and honey genes. This gives frogs a light yellow or “honey” coloration with reddish eyes. The pattern may have reduced black spotting or appear near patternless.

According to Josh’s Frogs, the honey hybino morph was first produced in captivity in 2017. Only a handful of breeders work with these rare frogs.

Patternless

Patternless white’s tree frogs lack the distinctive black spotting and markings seen in normal specimens. They may retain a small amount of pigment along the sides and back.

The patternless trait originated as a random mutation. It continues to appear occasionally, but only a few breeders actively work to develop true patternless bloodlines. When patternless frogs are bred together, roughly 25% of offspring express minimal pattern.

Leucistic

Leucistic white’s tree frogs exhibit reduced melanin or skin pigmentation. The degree of color loss varies from partial to complete. Completely leucistic frogs appear nearly albino except they have dark eyes.

According to Josh’s Frogs, leucistic amphibians remain extremely rare. Only a couple breeding operations have produced leucistic white’s tree frog specimens.

Tips for Choosing and Caring for Whites Tree Frog Morphs

Consider rarity and price

When selecting a whites tree frog morph, you’ll find a wide range in price and rarity. The most common are green and brown colored frogs which are widely bred in captivity. More unique colors like azure, turquoise and purple are rarer and cost $75-100 on average from breeders.

The rarest albino and leucistic morphs (lacking skin pigment) sell for around $300+. Carefully weigh whether you want a common frog for display or a prized rare specimen for breeding based on your budget.

Ensure proper husbandry

All whites tree frogs require the same care basics: housing with adequate humidity and temperature regulation. Keep morphs separately housed until 3-4 months to properly monitor growth, or risk one frog dominating food and habitat resources.

House in a 20 gallon tall terrarium filled with 3-4 inches of wet eco-earth or sphagnum moss substrate. Maintain humidity of 65-80% and provide a large water bowl or pond area. Use a low wattage ceramic heat emitter to keep ambient temperatures around 75-82°F.

Buy captive bred frogs from reputable breeders

Only purchase tree frogs bred in captivity as collecting wild specimens can be detrimental to sensitive populations. Breeders focused on captive breeding promote long-term species conservation. Reputable breeders also ensure parent breeding stock and offspring remain in excellent health.

Some top rated tree frog breeders include:

• Josh’s Frogs – largest online amphibian breeder
• Black Jungle Terrarium Supply
• Frog Day Exotics

When possible, purchase juveniles that are 2-3 months old as they more readily adapt and thrive in a new habitat over younger or adult frogs.

Be prepared for lifespan 15+ years

In captivity with proper care, whites tree frogs commonly live over 15 years and sometimes upwards of 20! Make sure you can provide adequate space and food as they grow.

Adults reach sizes of 3-5 inches snout to vent. The largest recorded captive specimen was almost 8 inches long and weighed 95 grams!

To ensure a long, healthy life, feed a varied diet like gut loaded roaches, crickets and nightcrawlers supplemented with calcium + vitamin D3.

Conclusion

Whites tree frogs are joyful and easygoing pet amphibians that come in a rainbow of colors. The different morphs allow you to choose a frog that fits your aesthetic preferences.

While normal and wild type frogs are most common, rare morphs like honey hybinos offer unique traits. Make sure to buy captive bred frogs from ethical breeders and provide proper humidity, heating, and care.

With minimal upkeep, your whites tree frog can thrive for over 15 years in captivity. Take the time to pick the morph that calls to you – these peaceful frogs will light up your life.