Xenopus Laevis – a fairly famous frog

Writer: Dr Anina Lee.

I have a soft spot for platannas. They can’t be described as cute – like a kitten – and I’m sure not many maidens are tempted to kiss one. But none the less, they have their uses – more about that later.

An African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) pair. PHOTO: Wikipedia Commons

The African clawed frog (Xenopus laevis) is best known to us as the common ‘platanna’. Its Latin name is derived from the three short claws on each hind foot, quite unusual for frogs. The word Xenopus means ‘strange foot’ and laevis means ‘smooth’. Hence a smooth frog with a strange foot. They also have webbing on their hind feet to aid their swimming. The colloquial name ‘platanna’ comes from the Dutch plathande, meaning ‘flat hands’.

Lone African clawed frog. PHOTO: Wikipedia Commons

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