African clawed frog
Refers specifically to Xenopus laevis, a species widely used in biological research and sometimes kept as a pet.
The African clawed frog is often used as a laboratory animal.
Katakana spelling is standard for this species name; usually written in kana.
Kanji spelling exists but is rarely used; the katakana form is strongly preferred.
Compound of 爪 (tsume, 'claw') and 蛙 (kaeru, 'frog'), referring to the claws on its hind feet. The katakana spelling reflects its status as a biological species name.