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Hyperolius microps facts for kids

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Hyperolius microps
Conservation status
Scientific classification edit
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Hyperoliidae
Genus: Hyperolius
Species:
H. microps
Binomial name
Hyperolius microps
Günther, 1864
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Synonyms
  • Rappia microps (Günther, 1864)
  • Hyperolius acuticeps Ahl, 1931
  • Hyperolius usaramoae Loveridge, 1932

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The Hyperolius microps is a small frog that belongs to the Hyperoliidae family. It is sometimes called the "small-eyed reed frog." This frog is found in several countries in Africa. Scientists are quite sure it lives in northern Malawi, northern Mozambique, Tanzania, and along the coast of Kenya. It might also live in nearby Zambia.

Where This Frog Lives

The Hyperolius microps was first described in 1864 by a scientist named Albert Günther. He found it in northern Mozambique. Over time, scientists have learned more about this frog. They sometimes have different ideas about its exact range. They also discuss how it relates to other similar frogs.

Even though there are different ideas, we know this frog lives in parts of Africa. Its main home is in countries like Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, and Kenya.

What the Hyperolius microps Looks Like

These frogs are quite small. Male frogs grow to about 21 mm (less than an inch) long. Female frogs are a tiny bit bigger, reaching about 22 mm.

This frog has a sharply rounded snout. Its toes are almost completely webbed, which helps it swim. Both its fingers and toes have special discs at the ends. These discs are larger on its fingers.

The frog's back is green. It has a darker stripe down its spine. There are also lighter stripes on its sides. These lighter stripes have darker spots around them. Male frogs have a yellow throat. The tops of their finger and toe discs are also yellow.

How the Male Frog Calls

Male Hyperolius microps frogs make a special sound to attract females. Their call is a short, high-pitched "buzz." It sounds like a quick vibration. This call lasts for about a quarter of a second. It is made up of about 25 quick pulses.

Habitat and Conservation

The Hyperolius microps frog lives in savannas and grasslands. You can often find them near water. They like to live among plants growing at the edges of swamps, rivers, and lakes. They also live near small pools of water. Male frogs usually call out from flooded grass.

The biggest threat to these frogs is the loss of their home. People are changing grasslands into farms. They are also taking water from rivers and swamps for farming. This means less space and water for the frogs.

Luckily, the Hyperolius microps frog lives in some protected areas in Malawi. These include Nyika National Park and the Kaningina and Chongoni Forest Reserves. These places help keep the frogs safe.

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Hyperolius microps Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.