Eleutherodactylus leberi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Eleutherodactylus leberi |
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Eleutherodactylus leberi is a special kind of frog that lives only on the island of Cuba. It's part of a big family of frogs called Eleutherodactylidae. This frog is quite unique because it is endemic to Cuba, which means you won't find it naturally anywhere else in the world!
About This Cuban Frog
This small frog was first described in 1965 by a scientist named Albert Schwartz. It belongs to a group of frogs often called "rain frogs" or "direct-developing frogs." This means they don't have a tadpole stage like many other frogs. Instead, tiny froglets hatch directly from the eggs!
Where It Lives
The Eleutherodactylus leberi frog makes its home in specific types of forests in Cuba. It prefers "closed mesic forests," which are dense, damp woodlands. You can often find it in "wet limestone forests," too. These are forests that grow on rocky, limestone ground and stay very moist, which is perfect for a frog.
Why It's Important
Every animal plays a role in its ecosystem, and Eleutherodactylus leberi is no different. Frogs are important because they help control insect populations and are also food for other animals. They are like tiny indicators of how healthy an environment is.
Protecting Its Home
Sadly, Eleutherodactylus leberi is currently listed as an endangered species. This means it is at risk of disappearing forever. The biggest threat to this frog is habitat loss. Its forest homes are shrinking because of things like farming, building, and other human activities. Protecting these special forests is super important to make sure this unique Cuban frog can continue to thrive.
See also
In Spanish: Eleutherodactylus leberi para niños
