Insuetophrynus

Insuetophrynus is a special group of frogs that contains only one species, called Insuetophrynus acarpicus or Barrio's frog. This unique frog lives only in one place on Earth: Chile. Specifically, it is found along the Valdivian Coast Range, a beautiful area between a few towns such as Chanchán, Queule, and Mehuín.

Barrio's frog is quite rare and not found anywhere else in the world. Scientists have only discovered it in a few places, which makes it very special and important for studying nature. The frog lives at elevations ranging from about 50 meters to almost 500 meters above sea level.

Because this frog is found in only a small area and in very few places, it is considered quite rare. Protecting its habitat is very important to make sure Barrio's frog continues to live and thrive in its natural home.

Description

Adult males of this frog species measure about 41 to 56 millimetres (1.6 to 2.2 inches), while females are slightly smaller, measuring 35 to 53 millimetres (1.4 to 2.1 inches). They have sturdy bodies with strong arms and legs, making them excellent jumpers. Their toes are partially webbed, and their fingers are short, thick, and not webbed.

The frogs have wider heads than their bodies, with broad, rounded snouts and large eyes. Their backs are reddish-brown with some white bumps, and their hind legs show darker bands. The throats are pinkish-yellow, and their stomachs are pale. Both the back and belly skin feel bumpy, except for the smooth throat. Young tadpoles can grow up to 61 millimetres long, with green-brown skin and light brown spots on their tails.

Habitat and conservation

Insuetophrynus acarpicus lives in coastal streams within temperate forest. These frogs spend much of their time in the water, even though they are not strong swimmers. During the day, adults hide under stones, and they come out at night to look for food along the edges of the streams. Tadpoles are found under stones in muddy spots where the water moves slowly.

This species lives in a very small area along the coast, covering just 33 km. Its home is at risk because of activities like clearing forests and planting new ones.