About Agalychnis lemur (Boulenger, 1882)
Scientific Name and Morphology Intro
The lemur leaf frog, scientifically named Agalychnis lemur (Boulenger, 1882), has distinct morphological characteristics.
Coloration and Camouflage
During the day, it is vibrant green, but changes to brown at night — this trait improves its ability to camouflage during the day and hunt at night.
Body and Limb Structure
It is a slender species with no interdigital webbing on its front or hind feet.
Historical Taxonomic Placement
In the past, this lack of webbing led researchers to place the species in the genus Phyllomedusa.
Current Taxonomic Classification
However, recent analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences has shown that the species is genetically closer to species in the genus Agalychnis, where it is currently classified.
Sexual Dimorphism
This species also exhibits sexual dimorphism: females are larger than males.
Adult Size Measurements
Adult females measure approximately 40–45 mm in length and 15–20 mm in abdominal width when resting, while adult males measure approximately 30–35 mm in length and 10–15 mm in abdominal width when resting.
Adult Weight Measurements
On average, females weigh around 4 grams, while males only weigh about 2 grams.
Habitat and Elevation Range
The lemur leaf frog inhabits tropical mid-elevation pre-montane rainforest between 440 and 1600 metres above sea level.
Costa Rica Distribution Sites
In Costa Rica, the species is currently found at three sites: Fila Asuncion, an abandoned farm 15 km southwest of Limón; a forested area near Parque Nacional Barbilla; and Guayacán in Limón Province.
Breeding Population Location
Of these three locations, only Fila Asuncion is known to host a large breeding population.
