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Heleophrynidae :
This small family of slender agile frogs is restricted to the southern tip of Africa, where its members are found along higher elevation stream regions. Only the genus Heleophryne comprises this group. Of the five species present, two are considered to be threatened due to urban development. Due to their cold habitat, tadpoles are slow to develop. Adults have large eyes, vertical pupils, and triangular toe discs. Dorsal patterns consist of large spots on a lighter brown or green background. One major morphological character from the larval stage uniting these species is that the jaw sheaths are absent and many rows of denticles are present, as well as the presence of triangular toe discs. Males are known to produce extra mucous and loosen their skin as they become more aquatic during breeding season.
Genus : Heleophryne (6 species) |
