Engystomops pustulatus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Engystomops pustulatus |
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Edalorhina pustulata Shreve, 1941 |
The Engystomops pustulatus, also known as the Guayaquil dwarf frog, is a type of frog. It belongs to the Leptodactylidae family, which includes many different frog species. This small frog is definitely found in western Ecuador.
Scientists think it might also live in Peru. This is because it has been seen in southern Ecuador, very close to the Peruvian border. However, some frogs found in Peru might be a different, unknown species or perhaps Engystomops puyango.
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About the Guayaquil Dwarf Frog
Adult male frogs are about 25 to 30 millimeters (about 1 inch) long. Female frogs are a bit bigger, measuring 25 to 36 millimeters (about 1 to 1.4 inches) from snout to vent. Their snout, which is their nose area, is rounded.
These frogs have a visible, round eardrum, called a tympanum. They also have small teeth on their upper jaw. Their fingers do not have webbing, and their fingertips are not wide.
The frog's back, or dorsum, is very bumpy. It has large, long bumps that form a "ʌ" shape near its shoulders. The frog's belly is smooth. There is also a long line of special glands on its side.
Where They Live and What They Eat
The Guayaquil dwarf frog lives in different kinds of places. You can find it in scrub savannas, Pacific tropical forests, and dry forests. It lives in areas up to 530 meters (about 1,740 feet) above sea level. These frogs can also live in areas changed by humans, like farms or gardens.
They are "explosive breeders," meaning many frogs gather to lay eggs at the same time. They lay their eggs in foam nests, which float in temporary pools of water.
Young frogs, called juveniles, mostly eat tiny insects like termites and ants. Adult frogs eat bigger things. Their diet includes snails, beetles (called coleopterans), and small creatures like woodlice (called isopods).
Conservation Status
The Guayaquil dwarf frog can be found in large numbers when they are reproducing. This species is good at adapting to different environments. However, it could be in danger from habitat loss. This happens when their natural homes are destroyed.
Luckily, the Guayaquil dwarf frog lives in the Machalilla National Park. This park helps protect their habitat and ensures they have a safe place to live.
See also
In Spanish: Rana bullanguera de pústulas para niños
