Atelopus planispina facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Atelopus planispina |
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Atelopus planispinus — Rivero, 1963 (unjustified emendation) |
Atelopus planispina is a special kind of toad that belongs to the Bufonidae family. It's also known as the Planispina's harlequin frog or Napo stubfoot toad. This toad only lives in the eastern Andes mountains of Ecuador. It has not been seen since 1985, so scientists worry it might be extinct.
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About the Planispina's Harlequin Frog
What Does It Look Like?
Adult male Atelopus planispina toads are about 31–32 mm (1.2–1.3 in) long. This is about the size of a small paperclip. Female toads are slightly larger, around 32 mm (1.3 in) long.
Their snout (nose area) is rounded and sticks out a little. Both their head and body are quite flat on top. They don't have a visible eardrum (called a tympanum). Their skin is covered in tiny, spiky bumps.
Body Features
These toads have long, thin front legs and slender back legs. Their toes are connected by webbing, which helps them move in water. Their upper body can be pale green or orange, with big black spots. The sides of their body are light green, and their belly is a pale orange color.
Where It Lives and Why It's in Danger
Its Home in the Mountains
Atelopus planispina lives in wet mountain forests. These forests are found at high places, from 1,000–2,000 m (3,300–6,600 ft) above sea level. Scientists believe these toads probably lay their eggs in streams.
Why It's Disappearing
This toad was last seen in 1985 or 1988. Even though people have searched for it since then, they haven't found any. If any of these toads are still alive, there are likely very few left.
One big reason for their decline was a disease called chytridiomycosis. This disease affects amphibians like frogs and toads. Today, other threats include losing their habitat. This happens because of farming, cutting down trees, mining, and building roads. Pollution from farms also harms them. Luckily, some of the areas where they used to live are now protected.
