Phrynobatrachus acridoides (Cope, 1867)

Size and Sexual Dimorphism

Males of Phrynobatrachus acridoides reach a maximum snout–vent length of 27 to 28 mm (1.1 to 1.1 in), while females reach 25 to 30 mm (1.0 to 1.2 in), with measurements varying by source.

Head and Limb Features

The tympanum is round and usually visible. The snout is narrowed, rounded, and somewhat prominent. The toes are moderately webbed.

Dorsal Coloration

The dorsum is greyish-olive or greyish-brown. This species has multiple distinct color morphs, and a narrow pale or green vertebral band is often present. The limbs have barring.

Venter and Markings

The venter is white, with a yellowish hue near the groin, and a pale stripe runs along the back of the thigh. In both sexes, the throat and breast are white with brown punctuations, or are uniformly darkened.

Male Traits and Vocalization

Males have a vocal sac. The male advertisement call of this species has been described as "a coarse, rasping croak", "a continual harsh creaking snore", or "cricket-like".

Habitat Range

Phrynobatrachus acridoides inhabits dry and humid savanna, shrubland, grassland, and coastal habitats, and it adapts well to modified habitats.

Breeding Habits

Breeding occurs in mostly temporary, but also permanent waterbodies including puddles, pools, swamps, vleis, roadside ditches, and flooded grassy depressions. Eggs are mostly laid in aquatic vegetation below the water surface.

Predators

This species is known to be preyed on by the snakes Psammophis sibilans and Thelotornis capensis.

Conservation Status

Phrynobatrachus acridoides is an adaptable, common, and sometimes abundant species that does not face significant threats. However, it appears to have declined at the margins of its range in South Africa for unknown reasons. It occurs in many protected areas.