Phrynobatrachus versicolor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Phrynobatrachus versicolor |
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Phrynobatrachus (Natalobatrachus) versicolor |
The Rwanda river frog, also known as the green puddle frog, is a type of frog that belongs to the Phrynobatrachidae family. You can find this frog in parts of northwestern Burundi, western Rwanda, southwestern Uganda, and the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Its scientific name, Phrynobatrachus versicolor, comes from Latin words meaning "to change color." This is because the frog's back can have many different colors.
What They Look Like
Male Rwanda river frogs are usually about 25 to 40 millimeters (1 to 1.6 inches) long from their snout to their bottom. Female frogs are about the same size, measuring 25 to 41 millimeters (1 to 1.6 inches). These frogs have a body that looks quite strong and sturdy.
They have a clear eardrum, called a tympanum, on the side of their head. Their fingers and toes have small discs at the tips, which help them grip surfaces. The colors on their back can be very different from one frog to another. Their belly is usually white, pinkish, or yellowish-brown. It might also have swirly patterns or spots. Sometimes, a line runs down the middle of their body, from their lower jaw through their chest.
Where They Live and How They Are Protected
The Rwanda river frog lives in mountain forests. It prefers areas with lots of fallen leaves on the ground. These frogs are found at high places, usually between 1500 and 2300 meters (about 4,900 to 7,500 feet) above sea level. They especially like to be near swamps and small rivers. This is where they lay their eggs and where their young grow.
Even though you might find many of these frogs in some places, their total number is believed to be going down. They only live in places where the natural environment has not been disturbed by people. The biggest danger to these frogs is when their homes are destroyed. This happens because of farming, cutting down trees for wood, and new human settlements growing bigger.
Luckily, the Rwanda river frog lives in several protected areas. These include Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kibale National Park in Uganda, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park also in Uganda. These parks help keep their homes safe.
