Dendropsophus coffeus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dendropsophus coffeus |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification |
The Dendropsophus coffeus is a small, fascinating frog. It is a type of tree frog, meaning it often lives in trees and has special sticky pads on its toes. Scientists officially described this frog in 2005.
Meet the Coffee Tree Frog!
The Dendropsophus coffeus is a species of frog that belongs to the Hylidae family. This family is also known as the "tree frogs." Tree frogs are amazing climbers. They have special sticky pads on their toes. These pads help them grip onto leaves, branches, and even smooth surfaces. This allows them to live high up in trees and bushes.
Where Does It Live?
This unique frog is found in Bolivia. There is also a chance it lives in Peru. It prefers to live in warm, wet places. Its favorite homes are subtropical or tropical lowland forests. These forests are full of lush plants and tall trees. The frog also likes freshwater marshes. Marshes are wetlands with lots of water and soft, muddy ground. These habitats provide the perfect damp environment for the frog to thrive.
Why Is It Important?
Every animal plays a role in its ecosystem. Frogs like the Dendropsophus coffeus are important parts of the food web. They often eat small insects, helping to control insect populations. In turn, they can be a food source for larger animals. Studying these frogs also helps scientists understand the health of our planet. Frogs are very sensitive to changes in their environment. This means they can act as "bio-indicators." If frog populations are struggling, it can be a sign that something is wrong with the environment.
Facing Challenges
Sadly, the Dendropsophus coffeus is facing threats. The biggest danger to this frog is habitat loss. This happens when the places where the frog lives are destroyed or changed. For example, forests might be cut down for farming or building. Marshes can be drained for development. When their homes disappear, these frogs have nowhere to live or find food. Protecting their natural habitats is very important to help these amazing frogs survive.
