Myersiohyla aromatica facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Myersiohyla aromatica |
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The Myersiohyla aromatica is a special kind of frog that belongs to the Hylidae family, also known as tree frogs. This frog is endemic to Venezuela, which means it is found only in that country and nowhere else in the world. It was first described by scientists in 1993.
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About the Aromatic Tree Frog
This unique frog gets its name, aromatica, because it is thought to have a special smell, although this is not always easy to notice. It is a small amphibian that lives in very specific places. Scientists are still learning a lot about this interesting creature.
Where Does It Live?
The Myersiohyla aromatica is known to live in only one place: a special mountain called Cerro Huachamacari. This mountain is a type of flat-topped mountain known as a tepuy, found in Venezuela. Tepuys are like natural fortresses, with unique plants and animals living on their tops.
The frog's natural home is in moist, cool places. It likes subtropical or tropical montane forests, which are forests found on mountains. It also lives near rivers, where it can find water and moisture. These areas are often covered in clouds and mist, making them very damp.
Why Is It Special?
Living only on one tepuy makes this frog very special and also very vulnerable. If something happens to its habitat on Cerro Huachamacari, the entire species could be in danger. Scientists classify its conservation status as "Vulnerable" (VU) because of its limited habitat. This means it faces a high risk of becoming endangered in the wild.
What Are Tepuys?
Tepuys are ancient, flat-topped mountains that rise dramatically from the surrounding landscape. They are mostly found in the Guiana Highlands of South America, especially in Venezuela. These mountains are often isolated, meaning they are cut off from other areas. This isolation has allowed unique species, like the Myersiohyla aromatica, to evolve and live only there. The tops of tepuys often have their own unique weather and ecosystems.
Conservation Efforts
Because the Myersiohyla aromatica lives in such a small and specific area, protecting its habitat is very important. Conservation efforts focus on keeping the forests and rivers on Cerro Huachamacari healthy. This helps ensure that this special frog has a safe place to live and thrive for many years to come.
