Microhyla pulchra (Hallowell, 1861)
Family: Microhylidae Beautiful Pygmy Frog, Marbled Pygmy Frog Status: Established Description: M. pulchra is a small squat frog, about the size of a 50-cent piece, with a small head. Its various common names; Painted Frog, Marbled Frog, Ornate Frog, all refer to the frogs distinct coloration and pattern. The dorsal pattern usually consists of a central darker brown forward pointing “spade” shaped mark which is surrounded by broad band of lighter tan. The whole of the dorsum is patterned with thin wavy dark lines. Within the “spade” are darker round spots bounded by thin white lines. In the area usually hidden by the thigh, there is bright yellow coloration. This frog has proportionally large hind legs and can leap surprisingly far. Tadpoles of this species are transparent with widely spaced eyes and are unlikely to be confused with any other species. Eggs are deposited as a sheet on the surface of the water. Biology: This frog is most commonly found in association with semi-permanent bodies of water such as wallows and wheel ruts, in savanna habitats. It can also be found in flooded forests and other wooded habitats. The distinctive call, similar to an empty spray paint can being rapidly shaken, can be heard year round, but most of the breeding activity takes place after heavy rainstorms in the summer. Males usually call while hidden in leaf litter, or small burrows and depressions often meters away from the water. Distribution: Native to China, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, This species is established and widespread in southern Guam. It was first detected in 2004 (Christy et al. 2007). Christy, M.T., C.S. Clark, D.E. Gee, D. Vice, D.S.Vice, M.P. Warner, C.L. Tyrell, G.H. Rodda, and J.A. Savidge. 2007. Recent Records of Alien Anurans on the Pacific Island of Guam. Pacific Science 61 (4) 469-483. |