Eleutherodactylus auriculatus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eleutherodactylus auriculatus |
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Hylodes auriculatus Cope, 1862 |
The Eleutherodactylus auriculatus is a type of frog that lives only in Cuba. It is also found on the Isla de Juventud, a large island near Cuba. This frog can be found from sea level up to about 1,300 meters (4,265 feet) high.
This frog is very common and likes to live in trees. Its favorite places are moist, old forests and newer forests that are growing back. It can also live in coffee farms where tall trees provide shade. These frogs lay their eggs in bromeliad plants or on the ground.
Sadly, the Eleutherodactylus auriculatus is losing its home. Forests are being cut down for wood or to make space for farms and buildings. This loss of habitat is the biggest threat to these amazing frogs.
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About the Cuban Tree Frog
The Eleutherodactylus auriculatus is a small frog. It belongs to a group of frogs called "rain frogs." These frogs do not need water to lay their eggs. Instead, their eggs develop directly into tiny froglets. This is different from most frogs, which lay eggs that hatch into tadpoles in water.
Where Does It Live?
This frog is found all over Cuba. It lives in many different places, from low coastal areas to high mountains. It prefers areas with lots of moisture and trees.
- It lives in old, untouched forests.
- It also lives in forests that are growing back after being cut down.
- You might even find it in coffee plantations that have tall shade trees.
What Does It Eat?
Like most frogs, the Eleutherodactylus auriculatus is a carnivore. It eats small insects and other tiny creatures it finds in the trees or on the forest floor.
Protecting Its Home
The biggest danger to the Eleutherodactylus auriculatus is the loss of its habitat.
- Clear-cutting: This is when all the trees in an area are cut down. This removes the frogs' homes and food sources.
- Agriculture: Land is cleared to grow crops or raise animals. This also destroys the forests where the frogs live.
- New Buildings: When roads, houses, or other buildings are made, more forest is cleared.
Scientists and conservation groups are working to protect these frogs. They try to save their forest homes in Cuba. Protecting these forests helps not only the Eleutherodactylus auriculatus but also many other plants and animals.
See also
In Spanish: Eleutherodactylus auriculatus para niños
