Phylum Chordata Rank Species | Scientific name Hemiphractus proboscideus Higher classification Hemiphractus Order Frog | |
Similar Hemiphractus, Frog, Hemiphractus fasciatus, Gastrotheca orophylax | ||
Hemiphractus proboscideus, or the Sumaco horned treefrog, is a species of frog in the Hemiphractidae family. It is found in the upper Amazon basin in extreme southwestern Colombia (Amazonas and Caquetá Departments), Ecuador, and northern Peru.
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Description
Males measure 43–50 mm (1.7–2.0 in) and females 52–67 mm (2.0–2.6 in) in snout–vent length. The head is triangular in dorsal view. Snout is elongated to a proboscis, and there is a large conical and several small tubercles on the eyes. At night, the body is yellowish with brown diagonal or transverse bars and with crossbars in the extremities; the belly is grayish-cream to white. By day, the back is brown with darker brown markings; the ventral surface is brown to reddish brown with orange or yellow spots on the belly, and yellow or white spots on the gular region. Tongue is orange.
Reproduction and behaviour
Reproduction seems to occur throughout year as juveniles have been encountered during all months. Development is direct, and the female carries her eggs on her back.
Hemiphractus proboscideus is a predatory species that eats other frogs. At night, they are typically found sitting on low vegetation. When disturbed, the frog will open its mouth to show its bright-coloured tongue. They can deliver a strong bite.
Habitat and conservation
Its natural habitats are tropical moist forests at elevations of 100–1,200 m (330–3,940 ft) asl. It is a rare species. No major threats have been identified, but it has declined in Ecuador for unknown reasons. Its range includes several protected areas.