Uruguay harlequin frog
EN

Uruguay harlequin frog

Lysapsus limellum

Unknown

Photo: Wikimedia Commons (CC) via https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lysapsus_limellum

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Uruguay harlequin frog faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development throughout its limited range in Uruguay and southern Brazil. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide contamination poses additional threats to this semi-aquatic species, while climate change is altering precipitation patterns critical for its breeding cycles. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats and environmental changes.

Threat summary

Habitat

This species inhabits temporary and permanent freshwater wetlands, including ponds, marshes, and slow-moving streams in grassland and agricultural landscapes. It requires shallow water bodies with emergent vegetation for breeding and adjacent terrestrial areas for foraging and shelter.

Frequently asked questions

Why is Uruguay harlequin frog classified as Endangered?
Uruguay harlequin frog is classified as Endangered — facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild — because population numbers are declining steeply and key habitats are under sustained pressure. The Uruguay harlequin frog faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development throughout its limited range in Uruguay and southern Brazil. Water pollution from agricultural runoff and pesticide contamination poses additional threats to this semi-aquatic species, while climate change is altering precipitation patterns critical for its breeding cycles. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to localized threats and environmental changes.
Where does Uruguay harlequin frog live?
Uruguay harlequin frog occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Uruguay harlequin frog?
The main threats to Uruguay harlequin frog are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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