Phrynobatrachus rungwensis facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phrynobatrachus rungwensis |
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Arthroleptis rungwensis Loveridge, 1932 |
The Rungwe puddle frog (scientific name: Phrynobatrachus rungwensis) is a small frog that belongs to the Phrynobatrachidae family. It is also sometimes called the Rungwe river frog. This frog is named after Mount Rungwe in Tanzania, where it was first discovered.
You can find this special frog in parts of Africa. It lives in the southeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, central and northern Malawi, and southern and central Tanzania. Scientists also believe it might live in northeastern Zambia.
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What Does the Rungwe Puddle Frog Look Like?
These frogs are quite small. Adult male Rungwe puddle frogs are usually about 17 to 18 millimeters long. That's less than an inch! Some males can grow a bit bigger, up to 23 millimeters.
Female frogs are a little larger. They measure about 21 to 24 millimeters from their snout (nose) to their vent (tail end).
Body Features
The frog's eardrum, called the tympanum, is not very easy to see. Its fingers and toes are usually thin and pointed. However, some middle toes might have small, flat discs at the end.
The toes also have some webbing between them. This webbing helps the frog move around in wet places.
Color and Markings
Female Rungwe puddle frogs have throats that are spotted with brown. Male frogs have a grayish or speckled throat area, which is called the gular region.
When scientists study preserved frogs, they notice the back (dorsum) is a dark brown color. It often has many black marks on it. The belly (abdomen) of the frog is white.
Where Do Rungwe Puddle Frogs Live?
The Rungwe puddle frog lives in specific types of environments. It prefers miombo woodland savannas and open grasslands. These areas can be found on mountains too, at high elevations.
These frogs live at heights of about 1,000 to 2,000 meters (about 3,300 to 6,600 feet) above sea level.
Their Favorite Hangouts
You will often find these frogs near grassy pools, puddles, and marshes. These wet spots are likely where they go to lay their eggs and raise their young.
Protecting the Rungwe Puddle Frog
The Rungwe puddle frog is a common species in places where its habitat is suitable. This means it's not currently facing big threats to its survival.
It lives in protected areas like the Upemba National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It probably lives in other protected parks as well. This helps keep their homes safe.
