Gastrotheca monticola facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Gastrotheca monticola |
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The Gastrotheca monticola, also known as the Mountain Marsupial Frog, is a unique type of frog. It is part of the Hemiphractidae family. This frog is found only in Peru. It is an endemic species, meaning it lives naturally in just one place.
Another frog, Gastrotheca lojana, used to be thought of as a type of Gastrotheca monticola. But now, scientists consider Gastrotheca lojana to be its own separate species.
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About the Mountain Marsupial Frog
The Mountain Marsupial Frog lives in mountain areas with trees. It can be found at high elevations, from about 1,900 to 3,235 meters (6,234 to 10,614 feet) above sea level.
Where It Lives
This frog likes humid mountain forests. It can be found among shrubs and in plants called arboreal bromeliads. These plants grow on trees.
The Mountain Marsupial Frog is also able to live in places changed by people. You might find it in villages or on farms. It lives near banana and coffee plantations. It also likes brushy areas and small patches of forest near rivers. These places are often close to arable land, which is land used for growing crops.
How It Reproduces
Female Mountain Marsupial Frogs have a special way of carrying their eggs. They carry the eggs in a pouch on their back. This is why they are sometimes called "marsupial frogs."
When the eggs hatch, the female releases the tadpoles. She places them into a stream. The tadpoles then grow and develop in the water.
Protecting This Frog
The Mountain Marsupial Frog is quite common in northern Peru. However, it can face threats in some areas. The biggest danger to this frog is habitat loss. This happens when the places where it lives are destroyed or changed.
Protecting their natural homes is important. This helps make sure these special frogs can continue to thrive.
See also
In Spanish: Gastrotheca monticola para niños
