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Morobe big-eyed tree frog facts for kids

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Morobe big-eyed tree frog
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Litoria trachydermis

The Morobe big-eyed tree frog (Nyctimystes trachydermis) is a unique tree frog found only in Papua New Guinea. This amazing frog gets its name from the Morobe Province, where it was first discovered. It's known for its big, brown eyes and bumpy skin.

About the Morobe Big-Eyed Tree Frog

The Morobe big-eyed tree frog is a fascinating creature. Scientists first described it in 1983. It belongs to a group of frogs called Nyctimystes, which are known for their large eyes.

Where It Lives

This special frog lives high up in the mountains of Papua New Guinea. You can find it in the southeastern part of the country, on a landmass shaped like a peninsula (land almost surrounded by water). It prefers cool, moist places.

Scientists have found these frogs living at very high altitudes. They can be found anywhere from about 1,280 meters (that's over 4,000 feet) to 2,480 meters (over 8,000 feet) above sea level. Imagine living that high up!

What It Looks Like

The Morobe big-eyed tree frog is quite large for a tree frog. Male frogs can grow up to 8.8 centimeters (about 3.5 inches) long. That's almost as long as a credit card! Scientists are still learning about the size of the female frogs.

This frog has some cool features:

  • It has rough, bumpy skin on its back. This might help it blend in with its surroundings.
  • Its eyes are a distinct brown color and are quite large, which is why it's called "big-eyed."


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