Eleutherodactylus casparii facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eleutherodactylus casparii |
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Eleutherodactylus ricordii ssp. casparii Dunn, 1926 |
The Eleutherodactylus casparii is a special type of frog. It belongs to a group of frogs called Eleutherodactylidae, often known as "robber frogs." This frog is found only in one specific place: the Sierra de Trinidad mountains in the Cienfuegos Province of Cuba. When an animal or plant is found only in one area, it is called endemic.
This frog usually lives in moist, green forests called mesic forests. But it can also be found in places changed by humans, like farms or areas with plants brought in from other places. Sadly, the Eleutherodactylus casparii is in danger because it is losing its natural home. This is called habitat loss.
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About the Caspari's Robber Frog
The Eleutherodactylus casparii is a small frog species. It was first described by a scientist named Emmett Reid Dunn in 1926. This means it has been known to science for nearly 100 years! Like all frogs, it is an amphibian, meaning it can live both on land and in water, though this species prefers moist land environments.
Where Does This Frog Live?
The Caspari's Robber Frog is truly unique because it lives only in the Sierra de Trinidad mountain range in Cuba. This makes it an endemic species. Imagine a type of animal that you can only find in your backyard and nowhere else in the world! That's how special this frog is to Cuba.
Its favorite places to live are mesic forests. These are forests that get a good amount of rain and stay moist. The damp environment helps the frogs stay hydrated and find food.
Living in Human-Changed Areas
Even though they prefer natural forests, these frogs can sometimes be found in areas that humans have changed. This includes places like coffee plantations or other farms. They might also live in areas where new types of plants have been introduced. While this shows they can adapt a little, it doesn't mean they are safe.
Why Is This Frog Endangered?
The biggest threat to the Eleutherodactylus casparii is habitat loss. This means their natural homes are disappearing.
What Causes Habitat Loss?
- Deforestation: Forests are cut down for farming, building, or wood. When trees are removed, the moist environment the frogs need disappears.
- Human Development: As towns and cities grow, more land is used for houses, roads, and other buildings. This takes away the frogs' living spaces.
- Climate Change: Changes in weather patterns can make their forests drier or hotter, making it harder for the frogs to survive.
Because of these reasons, the Eleutherodactylus casparii is listed as an endangered species. This means there are not many of them left, and they need our help to survive. Protecting their forest homes is very important for their future.
