Pristimantis kelephus
Overview
Pristimantis kelephus is a species of frog in the family Strabomantidae. It is endemic to Colombia and known from the Cordillera Occidental in Cauca, Chocó, and Valle del Cauca Departments, at elevations of 1,900–2,610 m (6,230–8,560 ft) asl. Its type locality is in El Cairo, Valle del Cauca Department.
The specific name is derived from Greek kefephos, meaning leper, in reference to the rounded pustules on the dorsal surfaces that provide the impression of some disfigurement caused by leprosy.
Pristimantis kelephus faces severe threats from rapid deforestation and agricultural expansion within its extremely limited range in the Cordillera de Toisán, Ecuador. The species' restriction to a single mountain ridge makes it exceptionally vulnerable to habitat fragmentation, while climate change poses additional risks through alteration of the specific microhabitat conditions required by this high-altitude endemic. Mining activities and infrastructure development further threaten the remaining forest patches where this critically endangered frog persists.
Habitat
This species inhabits montane cloud forests and elfin forests at elevations between 2,800-3,200 meters in the Cordillera de Toisán of Ecuador. It requires the humid, moss-covered microhabitats typical of high-altitude Andean forests, where it breeds in terrestrial environments without dependence on open water bodies.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in STRABOMANTIDAE
Threatened in Colombia
Frequently asked questions
Why is Pristimantis kelephus classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Pristimantis kelephus live?
What are the main threats to Pristimantis kelephus?
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