Clown frog
A species of Harlequin toads, Also known as Golden frog, Variable harlequin frog Scientific name : Atelopus varius Genus : Harlequin toads
Clown frog, A species of Harlequin toads
Also known as:
Golden frog, Variable harlequin frog
Scientific name: Atelopus varius
Genus: Harlequin toads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Brian.gratwicke , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Atelopus varius (Costa Rican variable harlequin toad), also known as the clown frog, is a neo-tropical true toad from the family Bufonidae (Crump 1986). Once ranging from Costa Rica to Panama, A. varius is now listed as critically endangered and has been reduced to a single remnant population near Quepos, Costa Rica (rediscovered in 2003) and has only relict populations in western Panama (IUCN). Recent variation in air temperature, precipitation, stream flow patterns,
General Info
Lifespan
8-12 years
Diet
Clown frog is a predominantly insectivorous species, feeding primarily on small arthropods. Its diet is composed of a variety of insects, with a special preference for ants, beetles, and mites. On occasion, the species may also consume spiders for sustenance.
Appearance
Clown frog is a small, vibrant amphibian with a streamlined body, and smooth, glossy skin. Its vivid coloration ranges from yellow to deep green, often interspersed with black irregular blotches. The male of the species possesses a peculiar oval-shaped nuptial pad on each thumb, an attribute absent in females. Sleek limbs end in adhesive pads, enabling expert movement in its typical wet habitats.
Behavior
Clown frog is a diurnal amphibian, most active during the day. This species is renowned for its distinctive mating behavior—males vocalize and guard their territories against potential rivals. Clown frog has a hazard avoidance mechanism, using its vibrant colors as warning signals to potential predators.
Photo By Brian.gratwicke , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
True toad Genus
Harlequin toads Species
Clown frog