Hylodes asper (Müller, 1924)

Common Name and Taxonomy

Hylodes asper, commonly known as the warty tree toad or Brazilian torrent frog, is a frog species belonging to the family Hylodidae.

Endemic Range

This species is endemic to the states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo in southeastern Brazil.

Communication Behavior

Because it lives in a high-noise environment, Hylodes asper uses a behavior called "semaphoring" to supplement its acoustic signalling.

Elevation Range

This frog has been observed at elevations up to 800 meters above sea level.

Natural Habitat

Its natural habitats are larger forest streams and small forest rivers located in primary and old secondary forests.

Activity and Microhabitat

It is active during the day, and can be found on rocks and low vegetation alongside these streams.

Distribution Pattern

Hylodes asper has a patchy distribution, but can be common in the locations where it does occur.

Population Status

Population declines have been reported at some of its sites.

Threats

The most important threats to the species are urban development and land use change, though these threats remain local and minor in scope.