Amietia hymenopus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Amietia hymenopus |
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Rana hymenopus Boulenger, 1920 |
The Amietia hymenopus is a type of frog that belongs to the Pyxicephalidae family. It is also known by many common names, like the Phofung river frog or the Drakensberg river frog. You can find this frog in the Drakensberg Mountains and Lesotho Highlands. These areas are located in northeastern Lesotho and nearby parts of South Africa.
Contents
What Does the Drakensberg River Frog Look Like?
Size and Appearance
The Drakensberg river frog can grow up to about 65 millimeters (about 2.5 inches) long. This measurement is from its snout to the end of its backbone. Males are usually smaller, reaching about 41 millimeters. Females can be a bit larger, growing up to 49 millimeters.
Its back is covered in many small bumps, called warts. However, it does not have long ridges of skin. A special white ridge runs from below its eye to its arm. The frog's eardrum, called the tympanum, is dark. Its lips often have a marbled pattern. The throat area might be speckled or spotted, but its belly is usually plain.
Patterns and Colors
These frogs often have two main patterns on their backs:
- One pattern has a light background with olive-green markings. It has two dark "V" shapes. One "V" points backward and is between its eyes. The other "V" points forward and is near its shoulders. There is also a pale spot in the middle of this mark.
- The other pattern has a brown background with dark brown markings. The warts on its back are a bit lighter in color. There is also a light patch in the middle, just behind its shoulders.
Where Do Drakensberg River Frogs Live?
Habitat and Lifestyle
Amietia hymenopus frogs live in high-altitude grasslands near rivers. They are found at elevations between 1,800 and 3,000 meters (about 5,900 to 9,800 feet) above sea level. Adult frogs sometimes sit on rocks to warm themselves in the sun.
Breeding and Tadpoles
These frogs can breed all year round. They lay their eggs in wet areas along rocky stream banks or near the edges of pools. The eggs are always laid in water. Even when it's very cold and there's ice, the baby frogs, called Tadpoles, can still be active!
Conservation Challenges
Unfortunately, these frogs face some challenges. They can get sick from a fungal disease called chytrid infections. If streams dry up or winters are very cold, many tadpoles can die. Also, animals walking and eating grass in their habitat can harm them. Luckily, some of their home is protected. For example, they live in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park in South Africa.
