Colombian four-eyed frog

Species of amphibian From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Colombian four-eyed frog (Pleurodema brachyops; in Spanish: sapito lipon) is a species of frog in the family Leptodactylidae. It is found in an area stretching from Guyana and northern Brazil (Roraima state) through Venezuela (including Isla Margarita) and Colombia into Panama as well as the Dutch Caribbean.[2][3][1]

Phylum:Chordata
Class:Amphibia
Order:Anura
Family:Leptodactylidae
Quick facts Conservation status, Scientific classification ...
Colombian four-eyed frog
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Amphibia
Order: Anura
Family: Leptodactylidae
Genus: Pleurodema
Species:
P. brachyops
Binomial name
Pleurodema brachyops
(Cope, 1869)
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Etymology

The common name "four-eyed frog" refers to two inguinal poison glands that resemble eyes.[4]

Behavior

When threatened, the frog lowers its head and raises its rear. When the frog adopts this posture, the poison glands are also raised toward the predator. The predator may also confuse the frog's raised posterior for the head of a larger animal.[5]

Habitat

The natural habitat of the Colombian four-eyed frog is open savanna and grassland and has been found in some modified habitats. Scientists have seen it between 0 and 500 m (0 and 1,640 ft) above sea level and have reported it in protected areas.[1]

Reproduction

When the seasonal rains begin, the frogs emerge from the sand. They can breed in ephemeral and permanent pools of water. The adult frog makes a foam nest for the eggs.[1]

Threats

The IUCN classifies this species as least concern of extinction. It has large areas of suitable habitat remaining.[1]

References

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