Physalaemus albonotatus
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
| Physalaemus albonotatus | |
|---|---|
 | |
Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Amphibia |
| Order: | Anura |
| Family: | Leptodactylidae |
| Genus: | Physalaemus |
| Species: | P. albonotatus |
| Binomial name | |
| Physalaemus albonotatus (Steindachner, 1864) | |
| Synonyms | |
|
Leiuperus albonotatus Steindachner, 1864 | |
Physalaemus albonotatus (common name: menwig frog) is a species of frog in the family Leptodactylidae. It is found in Brazil (Mato Grosso and Mato Grosso do Sul states), Paraguay, Chacoan Argentina and Bolivia.[2] Their prey consists of mainly arthropods and gastropods. However, their diet shifts depending on prey availability.[3] These frog have glands in their skin that secrete a thick poisonous substance.[4]
Physalaemus albonotatus occurs on the ground near semi-permanent or temporary water bodies or flooded grasslands, its breeding habitat; it also breeds in temperate ponds and roadside ditches. In Brazil, it has been observed in Amazon, Pantanal, and Cerrado biomes. Scientists have seen it as high as 1,200 m (3,900 ft) above sea level.[1]
There are several protected areas in and near the frog's habitat: Parque Nacional da Serra da Bodoquena, Parque Nacional da Chapada dos Guimarães, Parque Nacional do Pantanal, and Estação Ecológica Serra das Araras.[1]
Threats
The IUCN classifies this species as least concern of extinction. It adapts very well to human disturbance and to pollution.[1]
Larval stage
The tadpole of Physalaemus albonotatus has an oval body shape with a rounded snout. Its eyes are located on the top of the head with the nostrils placed closer to the eyes than to the snout. The tail is approximately two thirds of the total body length with the maximum tail height being less than the body height, the tip of the tail is rounded.[5] Tadpoles eat algae, diatoms, Cladocera (water fleas), and organic matter in the sediment.[6] Menwig frogs lay their eggs in puddles after a strong rain. The spawn spend the entire larval stage in these puddles. Both the depth and surface area of the puddle effect the growth and development of the tadpoles.[7]