Scaphiophryne marmorata Boulenger, 1882

Nomenclature

This species, the green burrowing frog, has scientific name Scaphiophryne marmorata Boulenger, 1882.

Size

Females grow to around 40 millimetres (1.6 in) in length, while males are smaller at 30 millimetres (1.2 in).

Body Shape

The frog has an almost globular overall shape, with a small flattened head, short snout, prominent eyes, and well-muscled limbs.

Dorsal Skin Texture

The skin on its back is mostly smooth, but there are two symmetrical pairs of thorny tubercles on the upper back.

Limb Digit Structure

The digits on both its forelimbs and hind limbs are elongated, which helps the frog clamber through trees and bushes.

Finger Disc Feature

A distinctive feature of this species is the expanded discs at the end of its fingers.

Hind Limb Digging Adaptations

Its hind limbs are short, with bony flanges on the heels that assist with digging.

Dorsal Coloration

The frog’s dorsal coloration is bright green, generously marked with darker green and black patches; in the western portion of its range, its base color is more olive.

Ventral Coloration

Its underside is often marbled with white.

Geographic Distribution

The green burrowing frog is distributed across Madagascar, occurring in the rainforests of eastern Madagascar and in the drier western half of the island.

Elevation Range

It can be found at elevations up to 1,000 metres (3,300 ft) above sea level.