Subfamily Phyllomedusinae Higher classification Hylidae Rank Genus | Family Hylidae Scientific name Phyllomedusa Phylum Chordata Order Frog | |
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Lower classifications Phyllomedusa bicolor, Phyllomedusa sauvagii, Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis, Phyllomedusa burmeisteri, White‑lined leaf frog | ||
Waxy monkey tree frogs phyllomedusa sauvagii
Phyllomedusa is a genus of tree frog from Central and South America. It ranges from Costa Rica southward to Argentina. It has around 30 species.
Contents
- Waxy monkey tree frogs phyllomedusa sauvagii
- Phyllomedusa convoluted procedures in the caring of mistreated amphibians
- Secretion
- Reproduction
- Scientific classification
- Captivity
- References
Phyllomedusa convoluted procedures in the caring of mistreated amphibians
Secretion
Some Phyllomedusa species produce a waxy secretion that reduces the evaporative water loss of their bodies. If they begin to dry out, they move their limbs over their backs, where the secretory glands are, and spread the lipid secretion over their entire skin.
Some indigenous groups from South America use the secretions of Phyllomedusa bicolor, the giant leaf frog, in shamanic hunting practices. The substance is said to intoxicate the hunters who ingest it, causing them to temporarily improve their sensorial capacities.
Reproduction
In this genus of tree frogs, eggs are deposited on a leaf surface, interspersed with hydrating jelly capsules. During the mating process, the frogs fold the leaf around their batch of eggs using their limbs, with a jelly plug at the bottom of the folded leaf to prevent the eggs from falling out. At hatching, the jelly plug is liquified, and the tadpoles drop through the previously plugged hole. These nests are made above water, so the tadpoles drop into a suitable habitat, where they begin their lives as filter feeders.
Scientific classification
Captivity
Two species, the waxy monkey tree frog (Phyllomedusa sauvagii) and the tiger-legged monkey frog (Phyllomedusa hypochondrialis) are known to be kept in captivity.