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Andinobates abditus facts for kids

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Andinobates abditus
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Synonyms

Dendrobates abditus Myers and Daly, 1976
Ranitomeya abdita (Myers and Daly, 1976)
Andinobates abdita (lapsus)

The Andinobates abditus is a tiny and colorful species of poison dart frog. It is sometimes called the Collins' poison frog. This special frog lives only in Ecuador. It was first found near the Reventador volcano, in the Napo Province.

What is the Collins' Poison Frog?

The Collins' poison frog, or Andinobates abditus, is a type of frog known for its bright colors. These colors often warn predators that the frog is poisonous. Poison dart frogs get their name because some tribes used their skin poisons on hunting darts.

Where Does This Frog Live?

This frog is endemic to Ecuador. This means it is found naturally only in that country. It was first discovered in a specific spot called its type locality. This spot was at the eastern base of the Reventador volcano. The area was a thick, wet forest with lots of moss and plants growing on other plants (called epiphytes).

Why is This Frog Hard to Find?

Sadly, the Collins' poison frog no longer lives in the place where it was first found. Its home was lost, likely because the forest was cut down. A serious frog disease, caused by a fungus called Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis, might also have played a part.

Scientists hope that this frog might still live in other places nearby. One possible area is the Cayambe Coca Ecological Reserve. However, no one has officially confirmed if the frog is there. Because it is so hard to find and its original home is gone, the Collins' poison frog is considered Critically Endangered. This means it faces a very high risk of becoming extinct in the wild.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Andinobates abditus para niños

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