Montezuma leopard frog
A species of American frogs Scientific name : Lithobates montezumae Genus : American frogs
Montezuma leopard frog, A species of American frogs
Scientific name: Lithobates montezumae
Genus: American frogs
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Montezuma leopard frog, Lithobates montezumae, is a species of frog in the Ranidae family endemic to Mexico. Its natural habitats are pine-oak or oak forests above 2,000Â m (6,600Â ft) asl but it can also survive in moderately altered habitats. It breeds in lakes and big pools. It is potentially threatened by habitat loss and introduced predators. It is also collected for human consumption.
General Info
Lifespan
1-3 years
Diet
Montezuma leopard frog primarily preys upon small invertebrates, exemplified by aquatic insects, spiders, and mollusks. Its hunting strategy involves opportunistic feeding and tactile predation, adapting to changing food availability.
Appearance
Montezuma leopard frog is a medium-sized frog with a slightly flattened body, slim limbs, and relatively smooth skin. Its primary color is brown with significant variations in shade, adorned by dark spots scattered asymmetrically. Males differ from females in size and vibrancy of color, being a tad smaller and less colorful. Montezuma leopard frog possesses a distinctive dark 'mask' between eyes and limbs.
Behavior
Montezuma leopard frog is primarily a nocturnal species, known for showing metachronal rhythm, displaying daily activities in a rhythmic sequence rather than all at once. These include foraging and mating, which predominantly occur on land. Its social dynamics are semi-aggregative, gathering in groups, especially during the mating season. Unique to montezuma leopard frog are its vocalizing behaviors, which include a distinctive male mating call.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
True frogs Genus
American frogs Species
Montezuma leopard frog