Order Anura Higher classification Callulina | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Callulina kisiwamsitu Rank Species | |
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Similar Frog, Amphibians, Callulina dawida, Brevicipitidae, Forest rain frog | ||
The Mazumbai warty frog (Callulina kisiwamsitu) is a species of frog in the family Brevicipitidae. It is endemic to forests of the West Usambara Mountains of Tanzania where it is threatened by habitat loss. It is part of a species complex and was recognised as a separate species in 2004, having previously been included in Callulina kreffti.
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Description
Callulina kisiwamsitu is a small species with an adult length of 30 to 40 millimetres (1.2 to 1.6 in). The females are larger than the males. The skin is densely warted and the colour is a mottling of various shades of brown and black.
Distribution and habitat
Callulina kisiwamsitu is endemic to the West Usambara Mountains in Tanzania. Much of this area has been deforested and this species is found in the remains of the forested area around Lushoto including the Mazumbai Forest Reserve, Ambangula Forest Reserve and Shume-Mugambo Forest Reserve. It is found climbing in trees and on the ground in damp forests with thick undergrowth.
Biology
Callulina kisiwamsitu is a predator and feeds on small invertebrates including bugs, grasshoppers and millipedes.
Breeding takes place in the rainy season. The male Callulina kisiwamsitu calls from low vegetation to attract a mate. The eggs are laid on land under cover in damp places. It is believed that direct development of the young takes place with juvenile frogs hatching directly from the eggs.
Status
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species regards this species as "endangered" as the number of individuals seems to be dwindling. Its range extends over an area of less than 500 square kilometres (190 sq mi) and is fragmented into a number of separate areas. It is believed that Callulina kisiwamsitu is unable to adapt to new circumstances when its habitat is destroyed by logging to provide additional agricultural land.