Craugastor epochthidius facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Craugastor epochthidius |
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The Craugastor epochthidius is a special type of frog. It belongs to a group of frogs called Craugastoridae. This frog is quite rare because it is endemic to Honduras. This means it lives only in Honduras and nowhere else in the world!
These frogs make their homes in specific places. They like warm, wet forests in low areas, or moist montane forests (forests on mountains). They also live near rivers. Sadly, this amazing frog is in danger. Its biggest threat is habitat loss, which means its natural home is disappearing.
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What is the Craugastor epochthidius?
The Craugastor epochthidius is a small frog species. It was first described by scientists McCranie and Wilson in 1997. Like all frogs, it is an amphibian. This means it can live both on land and in water.
Where does this frog live?
This unique frog lives only in the country of Honduras. Honduras is located in Central America. The Craugastor epochthidius prefers certain types of environments:
- Warm, wet forests in low areas. These are often called subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.
- Wet forests found on mountains. These are known as subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
- Areas close to rivers, which provide water and moisture.
Why is the Craugastor epochthidius endangered?
The Craugastor epochthidius is listed as Critically Endangered. This is the highest risk category for animals that are not yet extinct. It means there are very few of these frogs left. The main reason for this is habitat loss.
- Deforestation: Forests where these frogs live are being cut down. This happens for farming, building new towns, or getting wood.
- Pollution: Rivers and forests can become polluted. This makes it hard for frogs to survive.
- Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can affect their habitats. For example, less rain can dry up their homes.
When their homes disappear, these frogs have nowhere to live or find food. This makes it very hard for them to survive and have babies.
Why are frogs important?
Frogs, like the Craugastor epochthidius, play an important role in their ecosystem.
- They eat insects, which helps control insect populations.
- They are also food for other animals, like birds and snakes.
- Frogs are very sensitive to changes in their environment. Scientists often call them "bio-indicators." If frogs are healthy, it usually means the environment is healthy too. If frogs are in trouble, it's a sign that something is wrong with the environment.
Protecting frogs helps protect the entire natural world around them.
What can be done to help?
Protecting critically endangered species like the Craugastor epochthidius is very important.
- Protecting Forests: Efforts are made to stop deforestation in Honduras. This helps save the frogs' homes.
- Creating Protected Areas: Some areas are set aside as national parks or reserves. This keeps them safe from human activities.
- Research: Scientists study these frogs to learn more about them. This helps them figure out the best ways to protect them.
- Education: Teaching people about the importance of these frogs helps raise awareness. This encourages everyone to care for nature.
By working together, we can help ensure that the Craugastor epochthidius and other amazing creatures can survive for future generations.
See also
In Spanish: Craugastor epochthidius para niños
