Pithecopus azureus (Cope, 1862)

Taxonomy and Naming

Pithecopus azureus (first described by Cope in 1862) is a species of frog belonging to the subfamily Phyllomedusinae.

Geographic Distribution

It is found in Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru.

Adult Body Size

Adult Pithecopus azureus measure between 31 and 44 mm in snout-vent length.

Head and Limb Morphology

This species has disproportionately large eyes relative to its head, and very little webbing on its forepaws.

Dorsal Skin Characteristics

The skin on the frog's back (dorsum) is naturally bright green, but is capable of changing to brown during daytime.

Ventral Surface Coloration

The ventral (underside) surface of the frog is whitish.

Leg Markings

A green stripe runs down each side of the hind legs, and some individual frogs have additional orange and black stripes on their legs.

Threats to Survival

This species faces the threat of extinction due to habitat loss, caused by conversion of its native habitats to soybean and sugarcane farms, and by the construction of nearby dams.