Rio Pitzara Robber Frog
Strabomantis helonotus
Overview
Strabomantis helonotus, common name: Rio Pitzara robber frog, is a species of frog in the family Strabomantidae. It is endemic to Ecuador. It is currently only known to inhabit two regions near Rio Pitzara. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest. It is threatened by habitat destruction.
Strabomantis helonotus faces severe threats from habitat destruction due to deforestation, agricultural expansion, and urban development throughout its limited range in the Andean cloud forests. The species' restricted distribution and specialized habitat requirements make it extremely vulnerable to environmental changes and human encroachment. Climate change poses an additional threat by altering the temperature and humidity conditions essential for this amphibian's survival.
Habitat
This species inhabits montane cloud forests and humid Andean slopes, typically found in leaf litter and low vegetation in areas with high humidity and stable temperatures. It occurs in primary and secondary forests at elevations between 1,500-2,500 meters where persistent cloud cover maintains the moist microclimate conditions essential for its survival.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in STRABOMANTIDAE
Threatened in Ecuador
Frequently asked questions
Why is Rio Pitzara Robber Frog classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Rio Pitzara Robber Frog live?
What are the main threats to Rio Pitzara Robber Frog?
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