Cuban Bromeliad Frog
Eleutherodactylus varians
Overview
Eleutherodactylus varians is a species of frog in the family Eleutherodactylidae. It is endemic to Cuba and occurs in the central and eastern parts of the main island as well as on the Isla de Juventud. Common names cliff robber frog and Cuban bromeliad frog have been proposed for it. Eleutherodactylus olibrus and Eleutherodactylus staurometopon are sometimes included in this species as subspecies.
The Cuban Bromeliad Frog faces significant threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion across its Cuban range. Climate change poses additional risks by altering the moisture regimes essential for bromeliad ecosystems that this species depends upon. Its specialized habitat requirements and limited distribution make it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes.
Habitat
This species inhabits humid montane forests and cloud forests where it lives primarily in bromeliad plants, particularly in the leaf axils and water-filled tanks of epiphytic bromeliads. It occurs in forested areas at moderate to high elevations where bromeliad communities are well-developed and moisture levels remain consistently high.
Other threatened species in Eleutherodactylidae
Threatened in Cuba
Frequently asked questions
Why is Cuban Bromeliad Frog classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Cuban Bromeliad Frog live?
What are the main threats to Cuban Bromeliad Frog?
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