Klappenbach's red-bellied frog
A species of South american redbelly toads Scientific name : Melanophryniscus klappenbachi Genus : South american redbelly toads
Klappenbach's red-bellied frog, A species of South american redbelly toads
Scientific name: Melanophryniscus klappenbachi
Genus: South american redbelly toads
Content
Description General Info
Photo By leandrobareiro , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Melanophryniscus klappenbachi (common name: Klappenbach's red-bellied frog) is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae. It is found in the Gran Chaco in northern Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil (Mato Grosso do Sul), and possibly in Bolivia. Its specific name refers to Miguel Angel Klappenbach, a Uruguayan zoologist.
General Info
Lifespan
5-10 years
Diet
Klappenbach's red-bellied frog predominantly subsists on small arthropods, rendering it insectivorous. It displays a fondness for ants, termites and beetles, which predominantly constitute its diet and underpin its survival strategy in its native habitat.
Appearance
Klappenbach's red-bellied frog is a small toad with a robust body and rough, gland-laden skin. Its primary coloration is black, providing it with an effective camouflage in its habitat. Of particular note is its red abdominal region, which is starkly contrasted with the black. No significant differences are noted between genders or age groups in terms of appearance.
Behavior
Klappenbach's red-bellied frog is known for its nocturnal, solitary lifestyle, principally remaining underground during the day. It exhibits distinct foraging behaviors, feeding primarily on ants and termites. What sets this species apart is its unique defensive strategy: when threatened, it exudes a highly toxic skin secretion, discouraging predators and ensuring its survival.
Population
Stable
Photo By leandrobareiro , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
True toad Species
Klappenbach's red-bellied frog