Eleutherodactylus albipes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eleutherodactylus albipes |
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The Eleutherodactylus albipes, also known as the white-footed frog, is a small frog that lives only in Cuba. It's a special type of frog because it's found nowhere else in the world! This frog belongs to a family of frogs called Eleutherodactylidae.
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About the White-Footed Frog
This unique frog was first described by scientists Thomas Barbour and Benjamin Shreve in 1937. It's known for its small size and its special connection to the island of Cuba.
Where Does the White-Footed Frog Live?
The white-footed frog's natural home is in montane forests. These are forests found in mountainous areas. Specifically, it lives in subtropical or tropical moist forests. This means the forests are warm and humid, getting a lot of rain. These special conditions are perfect for this frog.
Why Is This Frog Special?
The Eleutherodactylus albipes is an endemic species. This means it is native to and found only in a specific place – in this case, Cuba. You won't find this particular frog species living naturally anywhere else on Earth! This makes it very important to Cuba's unique wildlife.
What Threats Does It Face?
Sadly, the white-footed frog is considered a critically endangered species. This means it faces a very high risk of disappearing forever. 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 buildings. When its home disappears, the frog has nowhere to live, find food, or lay its eggs. Protecting its forest home is key to helping this special frog survive.