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Aromobatidae facts for kids

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Aromobatidae
Allobates femoralis.jpg
Allobates femoralis
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Phylum:
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Family:
Aromobatidae

Grant, Frost, Caldwell, Gagliardo, Haddad, Kok, Means, Noonan, Schargel & Wheeler, 2006
Subfamilies and genera
  • Anomaloglossinaee Grant et al. 2006
  • Aromobatinae Grant et al., 2006
    • Aromobates
    • Mannophryne
  • Allobatinae Grant et al., 2006
    • Allobates

The Aromobatidae are a family of small, often colorful poison dart frogs. These frogs live in the warm, wet forests of Central and South America. They are known for their unique ways of taking care of their young. As of late 2019, scientists had found 126 different kinds of these frogs. They are divided into three main groups called subfamilies and five smaller groups called genera.

What are Aromobatidae Frogs?

The Aromobatidae family includes many interesting types of frogs. They are part of a larger group known as poison dart frogs. Not all Aromobatidae frogs are poisonous, but some can be. Their name, "Aromobatidae," comes from Greek words meaning "aromatic walker." This might refer to a smell some species give off.

Where Do Aromobatidae Live?

These frogs are found only in the Neotropics. This region includes parts of Central America and South America. They prefer humid, tropical forests. You can find them in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil. They often live near streams or other water sources.

What Makes Aromobatidae Special?

Aromobatidae frogs have some cool features. Many species are small, often less than 3 centimeters long. They can be brightly colored, with patterns of black, yellow, red, or blue. These bright colors often warn predators that the frog might be toxic.

Parental Care in Aromobatidae

One of the most interesting things about these frogs is how they raise their babies. Unlike many frogs that lay eggs and leave them, Aromobatidae parents are very involved.

  • Egg Laying: Females usually lay their eggs on land. They often choose damp places, like under leaves or logs.
  • Tadpole Transport: Once the eggs hatch, the tiny tadpoles climb onto the back of one of their parents.
  • Water Delivery: The parent then carries the tadpoles to a small pool of water. This could be a bromeliad plant or a small puddle.
  • Tadpole Development: The tadpoles then grow and develop in these small water bodies.

This special way of caring for their young helps the tadpoles survive. It protects them from predators and ensures they find water.

Different Types of Aromobatidae Frogs

The Aromobatidae family is split into smaller groups. These groups are called subfamilies and genera. Each group has its own unique species.

  • Allobatinae: This subfamily includes frogs like Allobates femoralis. These frogs are often found in the Amazon rainforest.
  • Aromobatinae: This group includes Aromobates and Mannophryne species. They are often found in the northern parts of South America.
  • Anomaloglossinae: Frogs in this group include Anomaloglossus and Rheobates. They are also found in various parts of Central and South America.

Each of these groups has frogs with slightly different appearances and behaviors.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Aromobátidos para niños

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