Ruiz's robber frog facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ruiz's robber frog |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Strabomantis
|
| Species: |
ruizi
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Eleutherodactylus ruizi Lynch, 1981 |
|
The Ruiz's robber frog (scientific name: Strabomantis ruizi) is a special type of frog. It belongs to a group of frogs called the Strabomantidae family. This frog was first described by a scientist named Lynch in 1981.
This small frog is found only in one country: Colombia, in South America. When an animal or plant lives only in one specific place, we say it is endemic to that area. This means you won't find the Ruiz's robber frog anywhere else in the world!
Contents
Discovering the Ruiz's Robber Frog
The Ruiz's robber frog was officially named and described in 1981. This was done by a scientist who studied frogs and their unique features. Giving an animal a scientific name helps scientists around the world identify and learn about it.
What is a Robber Frog?
"Robber frog" is a common name for many frogs in the family Strabomantidae. These frogs are known for their unique way of life. Unlike many other frogs, they do not need water to lay their eggs. Instead, their eggs develop directly into tiny froglets, skipping the tadpole stage!
Where Does This Frog Live?
The Ruiz's robber frog makes its home in the Andes Mountains of Colombia. It prefers a specific kind of environment called a montane forest. This means it lives in forests that are high up on mountains.
A Moist Mountain Home
These mountain forests are usually very moist and often covered in clouds. They are full of tall trees, thick plants, and lots of places for frogs to hide. The cool, damp air is perfect for the Ruiz's robber frog to thrive.
What Threats Does It Face?
Sadly, the Ruiz's robber frog is facing serious challenges. Its biggest threat is habitat loss. This means the places where it lives are disappearing.
Why is Habitat Loss a Problem?
People sometimes cut down trees for wood or to clear land for farming and building. When this happens, the frog's forest home shrinks or disappears completely. This leaves the frogs with nowhere to live, find food, or raise their young. Protecting these special mountain forests is very important to help the Ruiz's robber frog survive.
Images for kids
-
A Ruiz's robber frog in its natural habitat.
See also
In Spanish: Strabomantis ruizi para niños
