Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians

It’s our great hope that you, our readers, will greatly enjoy and appreciate this article dealing with some of Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians. We certainly enjoyed putting it together for you, and hope its helps increase your knowledge of such creatures.

Naturally, the few species presented to you herein constitute only the tiniest handful of the varieties of amphibians found throughout our beautiful world. Currently, scientists know of approximately 6,000 species in this remarkable Class of animals. Enjoy!

Chinese Giant Salamander

Chinese Giant Salamander Facts

• Leading off this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians comes the currently reigning goliath among them, the Chinese Giant Salamander.
• This astonishing work of evolution bears the informative, as well as accurate, common name that it does for understandable reasons. It also bears another, more difficult to pronounce name. That’s because it holds the scientific name of the Andrias davidianus.
• It owes this term to the highly respected French zoologist and entomologist Charles Émile Blanchard. This researcher made the first known formal recognition of it as a separate and distinct species. This scientifically notable event occurred in 1871.
• For the moment, however, it also serves as the focus of ongoing and scientific debate. That’s due to recent DNA research. A 2018 study revealed that several subspecies of the remarkable creature may in fact exist. This would complicate its classification.
• It holds several distinctions in the annals of science, in fact. The first’s a positive one, of sorts. That’s because it’s presently the largest of all known amphibians. The second, however, isn’t as fortunate. It also remains among the most threatened.
• Therefore, the IUCN lists it on the organizations’ Red List of Threatened Species. On that list, it holds the regrettable status of Critically Endangered. It currently faces several threats to its existence, including habitat loss and human consumption.
• Unfortunately, but not surprisingly, it also faces one more danger. The Chinese Giant Salamander now finds itself facing yet another factor augmenting these perils. That, of course, is the ever increasing concern of the ongoing effects of climate change.

Chinese Giant Salamander Physical Description

The most readily noticeable aspect of the aptly-named Chinese Giant Salamander has to be its sheer size. It easily earns its spot as the largest of all known amphibians. Unlike some of its kin, though, this generally species displays no noticeable degree of sexual dimorphism.

The lone known exception to this somewhat uncommon fact occurs during mating season. That’s because, at that time, certain glands of the males swell temporarily. With that sole exception, the two genders remain virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.

Specimens of both sexes, more precisely, frequently grow to relatively enormous sizes, as the name implies. A mature individual attains an average length of roughly 3.8 ft (1.16 m). These same specimens average a body weight of about 55 – 66 lb (24.9 – 29.9 kg).

Exceptional specimens do often occur, however. In point of fact, some attain lengths of as much as 5.9 ft (1.8 m). The weight of these same creatures sometimes equals a much as 130 lb (59 kg). The Chinese Giant Salamander clearly earns its common name.

Its also has a startling, wrinkly appearance. In color, it usually presents a dark brown, with a speckled or mottled pattern present. Some, though, can be dark brown, reddish, or even black. The creature further has a large head, wide mouth, and small, lidless eyes.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Urodela
• Family: Cryptobranchidae
• Genus: Andrias
• Species: A. davidianus

Chinese Giant Salamander Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The very name of the awesome Chinese Giant Salamander obviously provides a clue to its native range. The magnificent creature lives only in the portion of Asia that now forms the country of China. Even there, though, its locality remains somewhat limited.

Previously, the wonder of Nature seemed to be widespread throughout southern, southwest, and central China. Now, however, that range appears to be highly broken. The known populations appear from Qinghai to Jiangsu, to Guangxi, Guangdong, and Sichuan.

The greatest known concentrations further appear within three large river basin regions in the area. These consist of the Pearl River, the Yellow River, and the Yangtze. Yet another small population of these giant amphibians potentially exists in the Tibetan Plateau.

It also seems to have a preference for certain altitudes, where its choice of habitat is concerned. That’s due to the fact that most specimens appear at altitudes between 300 – 4,900 ft (100 – 1,500 m). One exception, though, is a grouping living at 13,800 ft (4,200 m).

This remarkable animal evolved as entirely aquatic in nature. Individuals mainly live in lakes with clear water, and rocky streams in the hills. In these locations, most make their home along the banks, typically in regions where dark, rocky crevices line those banks.

The Chinese Giant Salamander, like most of its kind, evolved as a carnivore. Its known prey consists of various local species. These include millipedes, insects, freshwater crabs, fish, and even small shrews. This natural wonder itself has no known natural predators.

Purple Frog

Purple Frog Facts

• Next up in this compilation of Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians comes the uniquely-hued species understandably known as the Purple Frog.
• Perhaps most notably, the clearly remarkable small frog easily ranks as one of the most unusual lesser known amphibians in the entire world. That holds true, in large part, to the very nature of its particular habitat. In this, it’s truly a unique creature.
• That’s because this amphibian actually spends the majority of its life underground. While many related species also dwell underground, few do so as extensively as this creature. Precisely why it took this evolutionary path, though, is unknown.
• Sadly, however, this animal now finds itself facing multiple threats to its continued existence. Because of this truly lamentable fact, the IUCN currently lists the brilliantly colored amphibian as Endangered. That status appears on the organization’s Red List.
• The threats the Purple Frog faces, though, remain numerous. These further include the ongoing reduction and degradation of its already restricted range. The escalating effects of such factors as climate change also undermine its chances of survival.

Purple Frog Physical Description

To be perfectly clear, while truly impressive in many respects, the Purple Frog nevertheless remains a physically small species. Like numerous related species, the amphibian also displays a marked degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism.

In its case, though, the males remain quite significantly smaller than the females. In fact, the larger females attain an average length measuring about 3.5 in (9 cm). Meanwhile, however, the males of the species rarely exceed 1.2 in (3 cm) in overall body length.

Both genders additionally display a decidedly horizontally swollen looking body shape. This provides a most unusual appearance. As a result of this characteristic, the animal has an overall flattened body form. It also develops a relatively small head with a pointed snout.

Its most remarkable physical feature, however, easily remains its unique coloring. That’s due to the fact that adults of the Purple Frog typically display a darker grayish-purple color. But the majority of younger individuals often display a deep, bright purple color.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Nasikabatrachidae
• Genus: Nasikabatrachus
• Species: N. sahyadrensis

Purple Frog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Not at all surprisingly, the amazing and reclusive Purple Frog inhabits a very specific portion of the world. This consists of the majority of the Western Ghats, in India, in Asia. However, even this represents an expansion of its previously supposed range of habitation.

The creature also inhabits every habitat type within the mountain range. This occurs due to the simple fact that the amphibian lives virtually its entire life underground. There, it feeds on a variety of insects, with its diet predominantly consisting of numerous termites.

In fact, the extremely reclusive animal only emerges from its underground habitat for a few days each year. This infrequent emergence occurs during the annual monsoon season. That’s because, at that time, instinct drives the amazing Purple Frog to the surface to mate.

Beyond these facts, however, researchers know very little of the biology of this species. Among the little known for certain is that males emerge near temporary streams formed by the torrential rains. After mating, eggs are laid in pools, usually among rocks.

Vietnamese Mossy Frog

Vietnamese Mossy Frog Facts

• The third species chosen for inclusion in this compendium of Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians is the impressive Vietnamese Mossy Frog.
• The simultaneously descriptive and accurate term for this intriguing animal serves as one of the common names for a remarkable amphibian. This marvel of Nature also goes by alternate names, though, including the mossy frog, and Tonkin bug-eyed frog.
• Its official scientific name, however, isn’t easy to pronounce. That remains that of the tongue-twisting Theloderma corticale. But by either of these names, this amazing animal represents yet another masterpiece of evolution in the minds of many people.
• Quite fortunately, this marvel of Nature appears to be maintaining a sufficient and stable population base. This further seems to hold true throughout the entirety of its natural range. Yet, while its numbers appear stable, it nonetheless has a limited range.
• But, despite the limitations this imposes, the IUCN currently list the Vietnamese Mossy Frog as Least Concern. This status appears on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species. This presently pleasant situation remains subject to change, however.
• That’s due to the fact that it now faces several threats to its existence. Loss of habitat, due to deforestation, obviously poses a serious danger, along with the international pet trade, regrettably. Its greatest threat, though, likely consists of climate change.

Vietnamese Mossy Frog Physical Description

The incredible Vietnamese Mossy Frog attains its relative fame due to characteristics other than its sheer size. Its most notable feature, as the name itself suggests, is the presence of a dense collection of protuberances and tubercules over most of its body.

The combined effect serves as the source of its most frequently used common name. Its coloring also plays a role in that naming, however. The skin of the creature generally shows a background of green, with various colored spots and markings added to the mix.

Such an astonishing combination of natural factors makes the animal strongly resemble a clump of moss. Given its natural habitat, this provides it with a highly effective degree of natural camouflage. In fact, it’s almost impossible to spot individuals in the wild.

But speaking purely in terms of size, the Vietnamese Mossy Frog remains an average-size amphibian. It further displays a slight degree of sexual dimorphism. Overall, it averages 3.5 in (8.9 cm) in length, with females being slightly larger than the males.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Rhacophoridae
• Genus: Theloderma
• Species: T. corticale

Vietnamese Mossy Frog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Quite sadly for those who appreciate the wonders of Nature, the Vietnamese Mossy Frog only inhabits a small area of the world. More precisely, as the name implies, it mainly exists in the northern portions of the country of Vietnam, in Asia.

Reports of small populations in other regions also exist, though. These other regions include the province of Hainan, in China, and possibly Laos. Wherever the animal makes an appearance, though, it displays decided preferences for its choice of habitat.

Being semi-aquatic in nature, it requires a nearby source of water. But that’s only the beginning. Very specifically, the amphibian has only been seen on the banks of mountain streams, at elevations of approximately 3,000 ft (9.842 ft), or in flooded caves.

This truly fascinating animal evolved, like many of its brethren, as nocturnal in nature. It’s also fully insectivorous in its dietary habits. The frog primarily consumes larger insects, such as crickets, cockroaches, and moths, but will feed opportunistically.

The breeding patterns of the Vietnamese Mossy Frog also seems to be quite specific. This mainly takes place in partially flooded rock cavities. The female typically lays a clutch of 8 – 10 eggs, placed above the water. These generally hatch over a period of 7 – 14 days.

After hatching, the newborn instinctively quickly drop into the water below them. The ensuing metamorphosis from tadpole into frog typically requires around 3 months. The exact lifespan in the wild remains unknown, but estimates place it at 10 years.

Indian Bullfrog

Indian Bullfrog Facts

• Appearing in the fourth position in this articlea bout Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians, the stunning Indian Bullfrog does so only due to random selection.
• Look at the brilliantly contrasting colors of the amphibian understandably known as the Indian Bullfrog. It doesn’t look like it could be real, does it? This gorgeous fellow does, however, represent a relatively large and colorful species of a bullfrog.
• Most unfortunately, however, this highly unique animal also remains endemic to a limited portion of the world. That’s because it now seems to have become introduced into Madagascar, though whether intentionally or not currently remains undetermined.
• There, many people consider it to be an invasive species, largely due to its voracious appetite. In some areas in which it appears, though, including the country of Thailand, the marvel of Nature is actually a commercially farmed species.
• For the moment, the fascinating Indian Bullfrog holds the classification of a species of Least Concern with the IUCN. This fortunate status exists largely due to the widespread habitat range, and large population, of the animal.
• Regrettably, however, this status seems likely to change, given, to no great surprise, the rapid degree of habitat loss due to human expansion in its native range. It also now faces the pressing danger of the ongoing effects of climate change.

Indian Bullfrog Physical Description

Quite impressively, the aptly-named Indian Bullfrog fully merits appreciation for more than just its distinctive appearance. That statement holds true due to the fact that it also represents one of the larger of the known varieties of frog known to man.

It does, however, display a degree of sexual dimorphism. In its case, though, this trait manifests itself in two separate ways. The first of these is in simple size, with males averaging slightly smaller than females. An overall body length equals roughly 6.5 in (16.5 cm).

Colors can vary somewhat significantly between individuals, but olive green and dark yellow predominate. Many specimens further display darker patches. It’s in the coloring, though, that it shows its other manner of gender-based differences.

The male Indian Bullfrog consciously changes its colors to primarily bright yellow during mating season, to attract females. The large bright blue sacs under its jaw also serve to also attract females. Both sexes, however, possess nearly fully webbed toes.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Dicroglossidae
• Genus: Hoplobatrachus
• Species: H. tigeriuns

Indian Bullfrog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The Indian Bullfrog inhabits a comparatively broad swathe of the globe, despite the suggestiveness of its common name. While its range does include the country of India, the creature actually exists in many regions throughout the continent of Asia.

The great majority of its population dwells in the countries of Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Myanmar, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and, of course, India. Smaller known populations of this mighty amphibian further appear in the Maldives and Madagascar.

But in whatever region of the world it inhabits, this work of evolution displays strong preference for its choice of habitat. As an amphibian, these naturally include moist areas, frequently consisting of freshwater wetlands, including man-made paddy fields.

More specifically, most specimens inhabit bushes and holes located very close to the water. From there, it seeks its prey, being carnivorous in nature, like other frogs. Given its size, it primarily preys on small mammals, invertebrates, and even small birds. 

The Indian Bullfrog also evolved as primarily nocturnal in terms of its behavioral patterns. Its breeding season, meanwhile, takes place during the monsoon season. Following mating, the female lays many eggs, but sadly, tadpole mortality rates are high.

Black Rain Frog

Black Rain Frog Facts

• Appearing next in this compilation of Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians comes the grumpily-visaged species known as the Black Rain Frog.
• The distinctive term for the fabulous species serves as one of the common names for a remarkable variety of amphibian. It also, however, also goes by several other common names. Each of these, in turn, remain comparatively descriptive, though.
• These various alternate names for the creature include such terms as the plain rain frog, brown short-headed frog, and the Tsitsikama frog. The scientific name for the amazing animal, meanwhile, is that of the hard to somewhat pronounce Breviceps fuscus.
• This fascinating species further remains very well known for several unique physical characteristics. Its ability to puff its body up to several times its normal size easily ranks high among these. It can also, however, fold its legs up under its body at will.
• Quite fortunately, the IUCN currently lists the marvelous Black Rain Frog as a Species of Least Concern. This status appears on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species. That list is routinely updated, to reflect changing situations.
• The species nonetheless faces various threats to its continued existence, however. One of these consists of its highly limited habitat range. Its greatest threat, though, most likely comes in the form of the effects of ongoing climate change.

Black Rain Frog Physical Description

Regardless of appearance, the Black Rain Frog undeniably remains a relatively small amphibian. That’s because of the fact that it only averages about 2 in (5 cm) in body length, excluding the legs. Thankfully, though, impressiveness does not depend on sheer size.

The body of the amphibian further develops comparatively squat and compact in terms of overall shape. In addition to this, the legs stay rather short, much like the majority of related species. This also serves to give it a moderately distinctive appearance.

In color, the interesting amphibian also typically develops as a dark brown. This color pattern, in fact, extends almost to the point of appearing black. Finally, the skin of the Black rain Frog lacks the warts typical of many frogs, but most commonly presents small tubercles.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Brevicipitidae
• Genus: Breviceps
• Species: B. fuscus

Black Rain Frog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Perhaps most notably, the remarkable Black Rain Frog appears to only be native to the Cape Fold Mountains, in southern South Africa. Even within that range, however, the marvel of Nature displays very specific preferences for where it makes its home.

This particular amphibian typically inhabits regions of both forests and heathlands on slopes and mountain plateaus. The Breviceps fuscus also resides at altitudes between sea level and 3,280 ft (1,000 m). The remarkable animal also appears to be primarily nocturnal.

This unique species also possesses attributes and behavioral patterns similar to some of its brethren. For one, it evolved as a proficient and frequent burrower. It additionally quite commonly creates tunnels, with these typically being shallow (about 15 cm).

It also distinguishes itself in yet another manner. Quite uniquely, during intercourse, the female excretes a sticky substance to prevent the male from slipping away. After the female lays eggs, the male will typically remain to guard them until hatching occurs.

Limnonectes larvaepartus

Limnonectes larvaepartus Facts

• Here in this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians we come to the fascinating creation of evolution named the Limnonectes larvaepartus.
• The comparatively recently discovered species known by the hard to pronounce name truly represents a highly unique species of frog. This newly recognized and quite remarkable animal species does not yet possess a common name, unfortunately.
• The amazing creature received its first scientific recognition in 1994, though under a different, temporary designation. Its first formal description and naming took place in 2014, however. That occurred at the hands of a group of three herpetologists.
• Astonishingly, this incredible amphibian also represents one of only four known varieties of a frog to develop fang-like teeth. Currently 6,455 known extant species of frog exist. This animal now represents one of only twelve to reproduce internally.
• To add to its distinctiveness, it is the only known frog on earth to not only conceive internally, but to give birth to fully developed tadpoles. All of the other species of frogs known to science that also give birth to live young deliver froglets.
• The IUCN now lists the Limnonectes larvaepartus as Least Concern on its Red List of Threatened Species. That status may soon change, though, since its numbers seem to be diminishing. It faces many threats, including that of climate change.

Limnonectes larvaepartus Physical Description

Though the Limnonectes larvaepartus fascinates researchers, it does not do so based on  size. That’s because the amphibian remains a somewhat diminutive species. Overall, mature adults of this variety of frog attain an average length of roughly 1.5 in (3.8 cm).

This small marvel of Nature further exhibits a slight degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its particular case, this trait manifests itself in the fact that females average slightly greater in length than their male counterparts.

Not to be completely overshadowed, though, the shorter males typically possess a stouter body shape. The otherwise impressive Limnonectes larvaepartus nevertheless also remains an overall lightweight, with mature adults averaging only 0.18 oz (5 grams) in weight.

Its appearance, meanwhile, tends to vary between individuals. The upper portions of the body vary in color the most. This portion may be either brownish gray, golden tan or reddish-brown. Its underbelly, though, develops as either cream-colored or yellowish.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Dicroglossidae
• Genus: Limnonectes
• Species: L. larvaepartus

Limnonectes larvaepartus Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The diminutive Limnonectes larvaepartus regrettably remains endemic to a highly restricted region of the globe. That small area consists of only the island of Sulawesi, in Indonesia. It also remains unclear if the creature ever possessed a more extensive range.

It further demonstrates very specific preferences in terms of where it chooses to make its home. The nature of that habitat, unfortunately, makes detailed study of the animal difficult. The living area of the diminutive marvel consists of a very dense jungle.

Even there, however, the Limnonectes larvaepartus only appears in a very specific type of local environment. To the knowledge of scientists, the isolated animal only makes its home near streams, and only in the more mountainous regions of its island home.

The precise dietary habits of this wonder of evolution has not yet been fully determined, due to the inherent difficulties of studying it in detail. Like its many relatives, though, adults feed on the various small insects species so prevalent within its zone of habitation.

After mating, females typically produce about 100 eggs. How the surprising creature achieves internal reproduction actually remains a complete mystery to researchers, however. This occurs because the male possesses no discernible reproductive organ. 

Wallace’s Flying Frog

Wallace’s Flying Frog Facts

• Next up among our choices for inclusion in this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians comes the truly befuddling Walace’s Flying Frog.
• The very name of this evolutionary marvel serves to indicate just how extraordinary it is. The common term derives partly from its unique ability, and also from the name of the individual that first discovered it. That was British biologist, Alfred R. Wallace.
• The generally used named for this minuscule marvel of Nature remains much easier to remember than its scientific name, however. That tongue-twisting term, typically only used by professionals, is that of Rhacophorus nigropalmatus.
• Not surprisingly, the name’s somewhat misleading, since the animal does not actually fly. It does, however, glide short distances from tree to tree. Though not, again to one’s astonishment, the only known frog to possess this ability, it’s among the largest.
• The exact extent of the population of the Wallace’s Flying Frog continues to elude researchers. This occurs due to the fact that sightings happen infrequently. Experts further remain undecided as to whether this indicates a small population or not.
• For the moment, pending more information, the IUCN lists the remarkable and distinctive creature as Least Concern. This status, while subject to revision, presently appears on the organization’s Red List of Threatened Species.
• The fascinating animal nonetheless faces several clear threats to its continued existence. Ongoing habitat loss now represents an imminent danger to it. Its greatest peril, however, now comes in the form of the effects of escalating climate change.

Wallace’s Flying Frog Physical Description

The impressiveness of the aptly-named Wallace’s Flying Frog does not originate solely with its aerial abilities. Its size and appearance both also serve to merit interest in the wonder. In fact, it constitutes a slightly larger than average variety of frog.

The amazing amphibian further displays the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism, like many of its kin. In its specific case, this trait manifests itself in the fact that females, averaging 3.9 in (10 cm) in length, attain a slightly greater size than males.

Most people generally consider the Wallace’s Flying Frog to be highly photogenic, and rightfully so. The colors the animal presents typically include a bright green on the back. It also, however, usually displays either yellow or a pale white on the underside.

It also evolved over-sized webbed feet that it utilizes to glide from tree to tree. The eyes, meanwhile, grow quite large, and possess striking horizontal pupils. Not stopping there, the species also has large toe pads, which help it cling to trees as it lands from its flight.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Rhacophoridae
• Genus: Rhacophorus
• Species: R. nigropalmatus

Wallace’s Flying Frog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

The remarkable Wallace’s Flying Frog, in fact, actually inhabits a moderately broad section of the world, at least when compared to related species. That habitat range, as it currently stands known, extends from the Malay Peninsula to western Indonesia, in Asia. 

Within that somewhat extensive zone of habitation, though, it displays quite specific preferences for where it appears. To the knowledge of researchers, it only inhabits regions of rainforest, for starters. Even there, though, it specifically limits its range.

The amphibian does not seem to reside at altitudes of greater than 1,970 ft (600 m) above sea level. Yet another habitat requirement remains the local presence of either small pools of fresh water or slow-moving streams. These it requires for its evolved breeding habits.

The Wallace’s Flying Frog spends the majority of its life in the trees, descending only to mate and lay eggs. Its known diet, meanwhile, consists entirely of a variety of small insects. Finally, its only known natural predators seem to be various arboreal snakes.

Wood Frog

Wood Frog Facts

• Placing in the eighth spot in this compilation of Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians does not diminish the awesomeness of the fabulous species known as the Wood Frog.
• This unassuming seeming creature holds the common name for understandable reasons. Its scientific name, however, remains the complicated term of Lithobates sylvaticus. By either name, though, it’s a much more complicated animal than it seems.
• In point of fact, this fascinating amphibian serves as the focus of great attention among many researchers. This degree of attention occurs due to the nature of a truly astonishing evolutionary adaptation displayed by this natural wonder.
• To the complete astonishment of those who first realized it, this frog somehow evolved a method of surviving being partially frozen in winter. This marvel of Nature has, entirely naturally,  developed special chemical reactions in its body that allow this.
• This process prevents complete freezing of the water in the cells and bloodstream of the Wood Frog from occurring. As long as no more than 65% of the water in the body freezes, the creature survives. This remains a unique adaptation among its kind.
• Quite fortunately, its population base appears to be stable, at least for the moment. As a result, the IUCN presently lists it as Least Concern on its Red List. The species does, however, remain at risk due to the ongoing and escalating effects of climate change.

Wood Frog Physical Description

Though sincerely incredible in some ways, the Wood Frog nevertheless represents an average-sized variety of frog. This example of the resourcefulness of Nature also, like related species, displays a slight degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism.

In its case, this trait manifests itself in terms of physical size, not appearance. As a result of this natural tendency, females of the species attain a slightly greater length than males. Overall, however, this length averages between 2.0 – 2.8 in (0.8 – 1.1 cm).

The natural coloring of the Wood Frog further serves to make one mistakenly believe it to be a simple form of amphibian. That’s because this aspect of its nature presents a pattern roughly shared by a great many other frogs throughout the world.

The adult individual typically appears dark brown or varying shades of tan on the upper body. The underside generally shows a pale green or yellow. This animal further, though, possesses the ability to alter its coloring at will as well, within this range of colors.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Ranidae
• Genus: Lithobates
• Species: L. sylvaticus

Wood Frog Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Fortunately for it, the impressive Wood Frog inhabits a relatively large area of the globe. More precisely, this natural habitat range consists of a broad range of North America. In fact, this extends from the southern Appalachian Mountains, near the east coast, to Alaska.

The unique amphibian is almost exclusively forest-dwelling by nature, however. It also primarily breeds in woodland vernal pools and freshwater wetlands. When not breeding, though, it may be in or near moist ravines, upland habitats, or freshwater swamps.

Most commonly, adult individuals of the Wood Frog spend the summer and spring in these and various other similar habitats. But, during the fall the animals migrate to neighboring uplands. This is where the majority of this species lives out the winter season.

It also primarily inhabits the upper layer of soil, just beneath layers of leaves. The amphibian further evolved as principally diurnal in nature. Consequently, it rarely emerges at night unless disturbed. At that time, it feeds opportunistically on small invertebrates.

Texas Blind Salamander

Texas Blind Salamander Facts

• Appearing next in this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians we present the wonder of evolution known as the Texas Blind Salamander.
• This distinctive-looking amphibian most frequently goes by the informative common name that it does for very good reasons. Yet the creature also has another name that, while still hard to pronounce, rolls off the tongue with comparative ease.
• That’s because, like all species, it also has a formal, scientific name. In most instances, though, this term’s somewhat difficult for non-professionals to pronounce. In the case of this particular fascinating species, though, that’s a relatively simple alternate name.
• This holds true due to the specific fact that, in the halls of science, it bears the official name of the Eurycea rathbuni. This marvel of Nature further received this moniker as a result of the work of the Norwegian-born American zoologist, Leonhard Hess Stejneger.
• He accomplished the first formal recognition of the creature as a separate and distinct species in the year 1896. Uniquely, it also has an alternate, scientific name, that he assigned it. Though no longer used, it once bore the name of the Typhlomolge rathbuni.
• Unfortunately for those who appreciate the wonders of Nature, it now finds itself facing several threats to its continued existence. Due to the combination of factors, the IUCN currently lists the amphibian as Vulnerable on its Red List of Threatened Species.
• The nature and extent of its own natural range renders the Texas Blind Salamander extremely vulnerable to habitat degradation or loss. The ongoing threat of climate change, however, no doubt also poses a dire threat to its existence, like most species.
• Efforts are being made to preserve this product of countless ages of evolution, though. That’s because, in 2013, the USFWS approved a specific habitat conservation plan. This aims at protecting its local environment, thereby reducing stresses on the species.

Texas Blind Salamander Physical Description

The Texas Blind Salamander merits appreciation for its physical attributes in several ways, to be certain. The most notable among these, however, is not doubt its eyes. Or rather, the lack of them. Technically, though, the awesome animal does actually have eyes.

These organs remain vestigial, though, and primitive in their general structure. Furthermore, they also lie under the skin, completely covered, and are thus nonfunctional. Given the habitat of the animal, though, such organs would be completely superfluous.

Unlike many of its related species, this creature displays no noticeable degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. It’s therefore quite difficult for an untrained individual to tell the genders apart, as they remain visually indistinguishable.

Both genders of this remarkable animal, in fact, actually remain relatively small in terms of size. That’s because mature specimens attain a maximum known body length of roughly 5.5 in (14 cm). Most individuals, however, reach a size closer to 3.5 in (9 cm).

The body shape of both sexes develops as highly elongated, again, like most of its many kindred. It also develops a relatively broad, flat head and snout. The flesh-covered eyes literally comprise nothing more than two small black dots under the skin.

Due to its environment, the Texas Blind Salamander has no need for pigmentation in its skin. It therefore presents a pasty, off-white color. The gills protrude from the throat, and represent the sole exception to this pattern, being bright red in color.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Urodela
• Family: Plethodontidae
• Genus: Eurycea
• Species: E. rathbuni

Texas Blind Salamander Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Obviously, the very name of this distinctive creature holds clues to its range of distribution. Unfortunately, both for it, and those of us who value Nature, it evolved as native to a highly restricted range of the world. It also appears that it never spread beyond that range.

This fascinating amphibian apparently evolved as endemic to a very small portion of what now constitutes the country of the United States, in North America. More specifically, the intriguing animal appears to only live within the boundaries of the state of Texas.

Even within that already restrictive range, the creature remains limited to a very tiny, and highly specific, zone of habitation. That’s due to the fact that specimens inhabit a total of only seven known locations, all located in a single county of the state; Hays county.

Within that territory, furthermore, it only makes its home in vey specific environments. These consist solely of water-filled caves, in the Purgatory Creek System, and along the San Marcos Fault. This therefore places its range solely in the vicintiy of the city of San Marcos.

Like its many relatives, the Texas Blind Salamander feeds as a carnivore. It also feeds opportunistically. Due to the nature of its habitat, it consumes various small prey, including snails, blind shrimp, and other tiny crustaceans, most of which flow into its area in the water.

Due to the extremes of its specific natural environment, researchers do not know a great deal about its life cycle. It’s believed, however, that the species breeds throughout the year. Its lifespan in the wild remains unknown, but captive specimens live up to 10 years.

Mountain Chicken

Mountain Chicken Facts

• Placing in the last, but certainly not least, position in this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians comes the truly impressive Mountain Chicken.
• This remarkable amphibian bears the deceptive common name for somewhat unfortunate reasons. Among researchers, however, it goes by the cumbersome scientific name of the Leptodactylus fallax. By either name, though, it’s a fascinating species.
• Quite obviously, it’s not a chicken, but the name derives from reports that its flesh tastes like that bird. Unfortunately for it, though, the creature remains a local delicacy within its endemic range. Partly due to this, its numbers have plummeted sharply.
• Thankfully, concerted efforts to preserve the species do exist, however. This primarily consists of captive breeding projects, with several institutions participating. A few specimens from these projects have been introduced to their native region.
• Regrettably, though, its continued existence as a species continues to be threatened by several factors. For the moment, its greatest threat comes from the presence of a deadly chytridiomycosis fungus. Habitat loss also poses a great danger.
• The ongoing effects of climate change, however, may also soon endanger the Mountain Chicken. Given all these factors, the IUCN presently lists the amphibian as Critically Endangered. This status appears on its Red List of Threatened Species.

Mountain Chicken Physical Description

Along with its somewhat distinctive name, the Mountain Chicken stands out from its many relatives for another reason. That status occurs due to the sheer size of the amphibian. In point of fact, this impressive animal ranks as one of the largest of all known frogs.

It also, much like many amphibians, displays a moderate degree of the physiological characteristic of sexual dimorphism. In its particular case, this trait manifests itself in terms of physical size. This tendency further mimics that of a large percentage of frog species.

Males of the amazing Mountain Chicken typically reach a slightly smaller size than their female counterparts. Exceptional individuals, usually females, attain lengths of as much as 8.7 in (22 cm). These also weigh as much as an incredible 2.2 lb (1 kg).

Most specimens, however, reach slightly smaller, though still quite surprising, sizes. A more typical adult size, in fact, equals between 6.7 – 7.1 in (17 – 18 cm). That nonetheless still qualifies this marvel of Nature as an exceptionally large variety of frog. 

Its coloring also develops extremely variable since it seems Nature loves variety. Consequently, individuals may be numerous colors. These include brown, barred, or spotted on the upper body. The sides and lower body typically show a shade of orange yellow.

The body of this fascinating animal further develops as relatively robust and strongly muscled for its kind. Perhaps most noteworthy of all is the presence of a large spur on each of the male’s thumbs. These the creature evolved to grasp the female during mating.

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Amphibia
• Order: Anura
• Family: Leptodactylidae
• Genus: Leptodactylus
• Species: L. fallax

Mountain Chicken Distribution, Habitat, and Ecology

Evidence indicates that the remarkable Mountain Chicken once existed in a somewhat broader section of the world. It appears to have evolved as native to many islands in the eastern Caribbean. Currently, however, it now appears only on Montserrat and Dominica.

While attempts have been made to reintroduce it to other islands, these have so far proven unsuccessful. This fact further puzzles researchers, since the species displays a strong flexibility in its choice of habitat, at least on the two islands its still inhabits.

There, individuals frequently inhabit a variety of habitats, provided there is a stream nearby. These include secondary forests, plantations, scrub, ravines, grasslands, and palm groves. Most individuals also prefer altitudes of no more than 1,410 ft (430 m).

The Mountain Chicken also evolved as primarily nocturnal in its patterns of activity. Mainly hunting at night, it does so as an ambush predator. It’s also well known among researchers for its voracious appetite. It happily eats virtually any prey that fits in its mouth.

Due to this indiscriminate feeding pattern, its typical prey understandably includes a wide range of victims. The majority of these, though, consist of various local insects and small crustaceans. It does, however, occasionally eat bats, snakes, and even other frogs.

Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians

We truly hope that you have thoroughly enjoyed reading, and hopefully learning from, this article about Earth’s Countless Amazing Amphibians. It’s also our hope that it left you with a passion for continuing to expand your knowledge of such wonders of our world.

Sadly, though, many of the fabulous species scattered across the globe now find themselves facing dire threats to their existence. These come in many forms. It’s up to each and every one of us to do all that we can to protect and preserve these wonders of Nature.

Checkout our other articles on 4 Magnificent Malaysian Insects, Earth’s Many Magical Moths, 6 Geological Wonders of India, Spectacular Dolphins Throughout Our World