Hyloxalus edwardsi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hyloxalus edwardsi |
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Colostethus edwardsi Lynch, 1982 |
The Edwards' rocket frog (scientific name: Hyloxalus edwardsi) is a small frog that belongs to the Dendrobatidae family. This family is also known as the poison dart frogs, though not all of them are poisonous.
This special frog lives only in one specific area: the Cordillera Oriental mountain range in the Cundinamarca Department, Colombia. When an animal or plant lives only in one place, it is called endemic.
The frog was named after Stephen R. Edwards, a scientist from the University of Kansas Natural History Museum. He was a friend of John D. Lynch, the scientist who first described this frog species in 1982.
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Where Edwards' Rocket Frogs Live
These frogs make their homes in unique places. They prefer streams found inside caves and cracks in rocks. They live in areas called paramos.
What is a Paramo?
A paramo is a special type of ecosystem found in the high mountains of South America. It is usually above the tree line but below the permanent snow line. Paramo areas are often wet, misty, and have cool temperatures. They are home to many unique plants and animals.
Why Edwards' Rocket Frogs Are in Danger
Sadly, the Edwards' rocket frog is in big trouble. It is listed as Critically Endangered by conservation groups. This means it is very close to disappearing forever.
The main reason these frogs are in danger is habitat loss. Their natural homes are being destroyed or changed. This can happen because of human activities like farming, building, or climate change. Protecting their unique paramo and cave habitats is very important to help these frogs survive.
See also
In Spanish: Rana saltona de Edwards para niños
