Andean marsupial tree frog facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Andean marsupial tree frog |
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The Andean marsupial tree frog (Gastrotheca riobambae) is a very special type of frog. It is also called the Riobamba marsupial frog. This frog belongs to the Hemiphractidae family. It is found only in Ecuador, which means it is endemic to that country.
These frogs live high up in the Andes mountains. They can be found from the Imbabura area south to Chimborazo. They live at altitudes between 2,200 and 3,500 meters above sea level. Their homes can be montane forests, dry rocky hillsides, or even corn fields.
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What Makes This Frog Special?
The Andean marsupial tree frog gets its name from a very unique feature. Like a kangaroo, the female frog has a special "pouch." This pouch is on her back.
How They Raise Their Young
Instead of laying eggs in water, the female frog carries her eggs in this pouch. The male frog helps transfer the eggs from the female's body to her back pouch. The eggs stay safe inside this pouch for about five to six weeks.
When the eggs hatch, tiny tadpoles emerge. These tadpoles then leave the pouch. They continue to grow and develop in water. After a few more weeks, they go through metamorphosis. This means they change from tadpoles into small frogs.
Where Do Andean Marsupial Tree Frogs Live?
These frogs are found only in the Andes mountains of Ecuador. They live in the high mountains and the valleys between them. Their homes can be very different places.
- They live in cool, moist mountain forests.
- They can also be found on dry, rocky hillsides.
- Sometimes, they even live near human farms, like in agave plants or corn fields.
Size of the Frog
An adult Andean marsupial tree frog is about 48 millimeters long. This is measured from its snout (nose) to its vent (the opening at the end of its body). It has a wide, somewhat flat body. Its skin is smooth on top but feels bumpy underneath.
Are They Pets?
Sometimes, people keep Gastrotheca riobambae as pets. They are interesting animals to observe because of their unique way of carrying their young.
Protecting the Andean Marsupial Tree Frog
This frog used to be very common. However, its numbers are now decreasing. The biggest threat to these frogs is habitat loss. This means that the places where they live are being destroyed or changed. Protecting their homes is important to help these special frogs survive.
See also
In Spanish: Rana marsupial andina para niños
