Engystomops freibergi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Engystomops freibergi |
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Eupemphix freibergi Donoso-Barros, 1969 |
The Engystomops freibergi is a small frog that lives in the Amazon rainforest. You can find it in parts of Brazil, southeastern Peru, and Bolivia.
For a while, scientists thought this frog was the same as another frog called Engystomops petersi. When two species are thought to be the same, one is called a synonym of the other. These two frogs are also known as sibling species, meaning they are very closely related. But in 1998, a study showed that Engystomops freibergi is its own unique species again! Even after that, these two species have sometimes been confused in other studies. There are even records of these frogs from the Guianas that haven't been clearly identified as one species or the other.
Scientists believe these two frog species became different mainly because of their calls. The way the male frogs call to attract mates is unique for each species. This is called behavioural isolation. It means their different behaviors (like their calls) kept them from mixing, more than being separated by mountains or rivers (which is called geographic isolation).
What Does It Look Like?
Engystomops freibergi are fairly small frogs. Male frogs are about 2.4 to 3.6 centimeters (about 1 to 1.4 inches) long from their snout (nose) to their vent (bottom). Female frogs are a bit bigger, measuring about 2.5 to 3.9 centimeters (about 1 to 1.5 inches) long.
Their back color can be different shades. The skin on their back is bumpy, with many small bumps called tubercles, and a few bigger ones scattered around.
Where Does It Live?
The Engystomops freibergi frog is quite common in the low-lying areas of the Amazon rainforest. These frogs are nocturnal, which means they are active at night. During the day, they usually hide in the fallen leaves on the forest floor. They mostly eat termites.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
These frogs breed during the rainy season, which is usually from December to March. At night, male frogs call out to attract females. They gather near temporary ponds or slow-moving streams.
The male frog's call is special! It has a beginning part, then a "whine" sound. In some groups of these frogs, there's even a third "squawk" sound. After mating, the female frog lays her eggs in a special "foam nest" that floats on the surface of the water.
