Phyllomedusa tarsius (Cope, 1868)

Species Nomenclature

Phyllomedusa tarsius, commonly known as the brownbelly leaf frog or tarsier leaf frog, is a species of frog in the subfamily Phyllomedusinae.

Confirmed Distribution

Its confirmed distribution includes Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela, and it may also live in Bolivia and Guyana.

Elevation Range

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

Adult Size

Adult male frogs measure 82 mm (3.2 in) to 90 mm (3.5 in) in snout-vent length, while adult female frogs reach 110 mm in snout-vent length.

Dorsum and Toe Coloration

The skin on the dorsum is green, and some of the toes are brown and white.

Ventral Coloration

The belly is colored white and orange, and the throat is white.

Eye Coloration

Their eyes have a mixed coloration of orange, red, and black.

Activity and Habitat Type

This is an arboreal, nocturnal species of frog.

Male Mating Behavior

Males perch on tall plants near ponds and call to attract females.

Egg Laying

Females lay clutches of 200 to 500 eggs in leaf-formed nests positioned overhanging ponds.

Egg Protection

The female coats the eggs in a jellylike substance to keep them from drying out.

Tadpole Hatching

When tadpoles hatch, they fall from the nest into the water below.

Habitat Threats

Although considerable habitat degradation has occurred across the frog's range, including from deforestation, overgrazing, and agriculture, scientists have classified this species as least concern for extinction.

Population Status

This frog has demonstrated an ability to survive in altered habitats, so its population is assumed to be quite large.