Balkan frog
A species of Water frogs, Also known as Greek marsh frog Scientific name : Pelophylax kurtmuelleri Genus : Water frogs
Balkan frog, A species of Water frogs
Also known as:
Greek marsh frog
Scientific name: Pelophylax kurtmuelleri
Genus: Water frogs
Content
Description General Info
Description
The Balkan frog ((Pelophylax kurtmuelleri) also known as the Balkan water frog and Greek marsh frog) is a species of frog occurring in Greece and, to a lesser extent, in Albania, Montenegro, and Serbia. The species highly resembles Pelophylax ridibundus, from which it was only distinguished in 1991 by bio-acoustic analysis. The separation of the species is not unanimously accepted.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Balkan frog species predominantly feeds on an omnivorous diet primarily comprising of aquatic invertebrates, but they also consume terrestrial insects, spiders, and even plant matter when available.
Appearance
Balkan frog are medium-sized amphibians with smooth, slimy skin. They are predominantly green with dark spots, sometimes appearing almost black. Males have paired vocal sacs, which they inflate during mating calls, a distinctive blue-gray color. They have long, muscular hind legs adapted for strong leaps. The color and pattern can vary, mainly due to environmental factors and age.
Behavior
Balkan frog is a nocturnal species spending its daylight hours hidden in aquatic vegetation. It displays strong territoriality and engages in vocal contention to establish dominance. Males exhibit a characteristic mating call during breeding season, attracting females for reproduction. Primarily, it is an insectivore, enjoying a diet rich in arthropods and small invertebrates.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Amphibians Order
Frogs and toads Family
True frogs Genus
Water frogs Species
Balkan frog