Atelopus dimorphus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atelopus dimorphus |
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Atelopus dimorphus is a special type of toad that lives only in Peru. It belongs to the Bufonidae family, which includes many kinds of toads. This small amphibian makes its home in wet, tropical montane forests and near rivers.
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About the Harlequin Toad
Atelopus dimorphus is known as a harlequin toad. These toads are often very colorful. They are part of a group of amphibians that are currently facing many threats.
Where it Lives
This specific toad is found only in Peru. When we say an animal is "endemic" to a place, it means it naturally lives there and nowhere else in the world. Its home is in the high, moist forests of the mountains, close to rivers. These areas provide the perfect wet environment for toads to thrive.
Habitat Details
- Montane forests: These are forests found in mountainous regions. They are often cool and very humid.
- Tropical climate: This means the area is warm all year round.
- Moist environment: Toads need a lot of moisture to keep their skin wet, as they breathe partly through their skin.
- Rivers: Many amphibians, including toads, lay their eggs in water. Rivers are important for their life cycle.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Atelopus dimorphus is listed as "Data Deficient" (DD). This means scientists do not have enough information about how many of these toads are left. They also don't know if the toad's population is growing or shrinking. More research is needed to understand how to protect this unique Peruvian toad.
Why Data Deficient Matters
When a species is "Data Deficient," it's hard for conservation groups to know if it needs help. Without enough data, it's difficult to plan ways to protect its habitat or its numbers. Scientists need to study these toads more to find out their true status.
See also
In Spanish: Arlequín de la cordillera Azul para niños
