Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis facts for kids

The Indian skipper frog, also called the skittering frog, is a very common type of frog. Its scientific name is Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis. You can find these frogs in many parts of South Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan. They love water and are almost always seen near the edges of ponds, rivers, or lakes.

These frogs get their name "skipper" or "skittering" because of how they move. If you get too close, they quickly jump and "skitter" away across the water's surface to hide. They are known for being quite slimy and often keep their eyes just above the water, watching their surroundings.

Where They Live

Indian skipper frogs are found in a wide range of habitats. They prefer places with plenty of water, such as:

• Ponds
• Lakes
• Rivers
• Streams
• Paddy fields (rice fields)
• Even small puddles

They are very adaptable and can live in both dry and wet areas, as long as there's a water source nearby. You will rarely see them far from water, as they need it to stay moist and safe.

What They Look Like

Indian skipper frogs are usually small to medium-sized. They have smooth, slimy skin that can be different shades of green, brown, or olive. Their skin often has darker spots or patterns that help them blend in with their surroundings.

One interesting feature is their eyes. They have round pupils, and their eyes are often positioned high on their heads. This helps them see above the water while keeping most of their body submerged. They also have strong back legs, which are perfect for their quick jumps and "skittering" movements across the water.

What They Eat

Like most frogs, Indian skipper frogs are carnivores, meaning they eat other animals. They are excellent hunters and mostly eat insects. They wait patiently for their prey to come close, then quickly snap them up with their long, sticky tongues.

Their diet includes:

• Flies
• Mosquitoes
• Beetles
• Small worms
• Other tiny invertebrates

They play an important role in controlling insect populations in their habitats.

Life Cycle and Reproduction

The life cycle of the Indian skipper frog is similar to that of many other frogs. It starts with eggs, which are usually laid in water.

Eggs and Tadpoles

Female frogs lay their eggs in clumps in the water. These eggs hatch into tiny larvae called tadpoles. Tadpoles look very different from adult frogs. They live entirely in the water, breathing through gills and feeding on algae and other plant matter.

Growing Up

As tadpoles grow, they start to change. They develop back legs first, then front legs. Their gills slowly disappear, and lungs develop, allowing them to breathe air. Their tails also shrink and are eventually absorbed into their bodies. This process is called metamorphosis.

Once metamorphosis is complete, the tadpole has transformed into a small froglet, which then grows into an adult frog. The entire process from egg to adult can take several weeks to a few months, depending on the environment and food availability.

Images for kids

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  Characteristic square pupil

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  Head showing the nostrils opening at the top

See also

• Frog
• Amphibian
• In Spanish: Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis para niños