Plump toads facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Osornophryne |
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| Osornophryne simpsoni | |
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Osornophryne
Ruiz-Carranza & Hernández-Camacho, 1976
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6 species; see table. |
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Osornophryne are a group of small toads, often called Plump Toads because of their round bodies. They belong to the family of "true toads" (Bufonidae). These unique amphibians live high up in the mountains of Colombia and Ecuador in South America.
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Meet the Plump Toads: Species and Homes
Plump Toads are a special group of amphibians. Scientists have identified several different types, or species, of Osornophryne. Each species has its own scientific name and sometimes a common name. These toads are found in specific mountain areas, often in cloud forests or páramos, which are high-altitude grasslands.
| Scientific Name | Common Name |
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| Osornophryne antisana | Napo Plump Toad |
| Osornophryne bufoniformis | Peracca's Plump Toad |
| Osornophryne guacamayo | Guacamayo Plump Toad |
| Osornophryne percrassa | Herveo Plump Toad |
| Osornophryne puruanta | |
| Osornophryne sumacoensis | |
| Osornophryne talipes | Cannatella's Plump Toad |
Where Plump Toads Live
Plump Toads are found only in certain parts of South America. They live in the cool, moist mountain regions of Colombia and Ecuador. These areas include cloud forests, which are forests covered in mist, and páramos, which are unique high-altitude grasslands.
Their Mountain Habitats
These toads prefer to live at high elevations. Their homes are often found between 2,000 and 4,000 meters (about 6,500 to 13,000 feet) above sea level. The cool, damp conditions in these mountain environments are perfect for them. They often hide among mosses, leaf litter, or under rocks.
Why High Mountains?
The specific conditions of these high-altitude habitats are important for Plump Toads. The constant moisture from clouds and rain helps keep their skin hydrated. The cooler temperatures also suit them, as amphibians are cold-blooded animals. Their unique bodies are well-suited for these challenging environments.
What Makes Plump Toads Special?
Plump Toads have some interesting features that help them survive in their mountain homes. They are generally small, with their "plump" appearance coming from their rounded bodies.
Physical Features
- Size: Most Plump Toads are quite small, usually only a few centimeters long.
- Skin: Like many toads, they have bumpy skin. This skin helps them blend in with their surroundings.
- Color: Their colors can vary, often being shades of brown, green, or black. This camouflage helps them hide from predators.
Life in the Wild
Scientists are still learning a lot about the daily lives of Plump Toads. Because they live in remote mountain areas, they can be hard to study. They likely eat small insects and other invertebrates, just like many other toads.
Conservation of Plump Toads
Many species of amphibians, including some Plump Toads, are facing threats. Their mountain habitats are sensitive to changes in climate and human activities. Protecting their homes is very important for their survival.
Threats to Their Survival
- Habitat Loss: Forests being cut down or land being used for farming can destroy their homes.
- Climate Change: Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns can affect their sensitive habitats.
- Diseases: Amphibians worldwide are also threatened by certain diseases, like chytrid fungus.
How We Can Help
Protecting these unique toads means protecting their mountain environments. Efforts to create protected areas and study these amphibians help ensure they can continue to thrive in their natural homes. Learning about them is the first step to helping them!
See also
In Spanish: Osornophryne para niños
