Tlalocohyla loquax (Gaige & Stuart, 1934)

Common Name and Taxonomy

Tlalocohyla loquax, commonly known as the mahogany tree frog, is a species of frog in the Hylidae family.

Geographic Range

It is found in Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.

Natural Habitats

Its natural habitats include subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marshes, pastureland, rural gardens, and heavily degraded former forests.

Conservation Status and Threats

While habitat loss is a threat to this species, it is not at risk of extinction, as it can adapt to many habitat types as long as sufficient plant cover is available, and much of its range falls within protected areas.

Adult Size

Adult male mahogany tree frogs measure 33 to 45 mm in snout-vent length, and adult females measure 38 to 47 mm.

Foot Structure

This frog has webbed skin on all four feet.

Base Coloration

Its back is bright yellow, with patches of bright red near its vent and sides.

Color Change Ability

It can change its body color: it appears yellow and orange at night, and almost white during the day.

Activity Pattern

This species is nocturnal.

Egg Laying Behavior

Females lay clutches of approximately 250 eggs in deep bodies of water.

Egg and Tadpole Development

The eggs stick to surface plants, and after hatching, the tadpoles swim downward into deeper water.