Leptodactylus troglodytes Lutz, 1926

Adult Size

Adults of Leptodactylus troglodytes measure 46–53 mm (1.8–2.1 in) in snout–vent length for males, and 45–53 mm (1.8–2.1 in) for females. The tympanum is distinct.

Sexual Dimorphism

Male individuals have a more acuminate snout than females.

Dorsal and Lateral Fold Morphology

Dorsal folds are absent, while dorsolateral folds are indistinct or most often absent; lateral folds are also either absent or interrupted.

Belly Coloration

The belly is uniformly light in color.

Tadpole Size

Tadpoles of this species reach a total length of 43 mm (1.7 in) when at Gosner stage 36.

Habitat Range

This is a common frog species that occurs in both dry and moist savanna, agricultural land within the Cerrado and Caatinga ecosystems, and dune systems in the Atlantic Rainforest zone.

Threats and Conservation Status

Leptodactylus troglodytes is negatively affected by intensive agriculture, livestock overgrazing, and fire, but the full species is not considered threatened. It has been recorded in many protected areas.

Reproductive Nest Construction

For reproduction, Leptodactylus troglodytes constructs foam nests in underground chambers located near water. A single tunnel can hold multiple of these chambers.

Mating Behavior

Males are territorial and produce both territorial and courtship calls, which females may respond to.