About Elachistocleis pearsei (Ruthven, 1914)
Common Name and Taxonomic Placement
Elachistocleis pearsei, commonly known as the Colombian plump frog, is a species of frog in the family Microhylidae.
Distribution
Its distribution covers the Pacific slope of western Costa Rica, Panama, the Caribbean lowlands of Colombia, the Magdalena River Valley of Colombia, and northwestern Venezuela.
Previous Genus Classification
Until 2012, this species was recognized as the only member of the monotypic genus Relictivomer.
Taxonomic Revision
Molecular phylogenetic analysis showed that Elachistocleis pearsei is nested within other species of the genus Elachistocleis, which led to the reinstatement of the name Elachistocleis pearsei for this species.
Activity Pattern and Elevation Range
Elachistocleis pearsei is a nocturnal, fossorial lowland frog that occurs at elevations below 750 m (2,460 ft).
Habitat
It can be found across habitats ranging from lowland dry forests to premontane rain and wet forests.
Breeding
Breeding occurs in temporary and permanent pools after rainfall.
Local Threats
It is thought to experience local negative impacts from habitat loss.
