kids encyclopedia robot

Plectrohyla psiloderma facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Plectrohyla psiloderma
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Synonyms

Hyla psiloderma (McCranie and Wilson, 1999)

The Plectrohyla psiloderma is a type of frog. It belongs to the Hylidae family, which is also known as the tree frog family. This frog was first described in 1999.

This special frog lives in the mountains. You can find it in western Honduras and nearby El Salvador.

Where This Frog Lives

This frog likes to live in moist forests. These forests are found high up in the mountains. They are usually between 2,450 and 2,530 meters (about 8,000 to 8,300 feet) above sea level.

The Plectrohyla psiloderma spends its time on low plants. It also likes to sit on big rocks called boulders. These frogs live near clean, natural streams. The streams are very important because that is where they lay their eggs and raise their young.

Why This Frog Is in Danger

Sadly, the Plectrohyla psiloderma is an endangered animal. This means it is at a high risk of disappearing forever. There are a few main reasons why this frog is in trouble.

Losing Its Home

The biggest threat to this frog is habitat loss. This means the places where it lives are being destroyed. People are clearing forests to make farms. This is called agricultural encroachment. They also cut down trees for wood. This takes away the frog's home and shelter.

Other Dangers

Farmers sometimes use chemicals called pesticides. These chemicals can harm frogs. Scientists think pesticides might be a threat to this frog too.

Another big worry is a disease called Chytridiomycosis. This is a serious fungal disease that affects amphibians like frogs. It can be very deadly for them.

Protecting the Frog

Some efforts are being made to protect this frog. It lives inside the Celaque National Park in Honduras. National parks help protect animals and their homes. Scientists hope it might also live in other protected areas nearby.

kids search engine
Plectrohyla psiloderma Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.