Understanding Temperature Zones in a Pixie Frog Enclosure

Understanding Temperature Zones in a Pixie Frog Enclosure

Many keepers use terms like hot spot, warm side, cool side, and thermal gradient interchangeably. They aren't the same thing, and understanding the difference helps you build a better enclosure.

Hot Spot

The hot spot is the warmest point in the enclosure. It is the highest temperature available to your frog and is created by the heat source.

A Pixie Frog doesn't need a basking area. It needs access to a hot spot whenever it chooses.

Warm Side

The warm side is the area surrounding the hot spot. It's warmer than the rest of the enclosure but cooler than the hot spot itself, giving the frog more temperature options.

Cool Side

The cool side is the opposite end of the enclosure where your frog can cool down when needed.

Thermal Gradient

The thermal gradient is the gradual change in temperature from the hot spot to the cool side.

This gradient is what allows your Pixie Frog to thermoregulate. Instead of keeping the enclosure at one "perfect" temperature, you provide a range of temperatures and let the frog decide where it needs to be.

The goal isn't to control the frog's temperature. The goal is to provide a thermal gradient so the frog can control itself.

Read next: Why Your Pixie Frog Doesn't Need One Perfect Temperature


Its 85 degrees in the hot spot and she’s loving it



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