Triprion spatulatus Günther, 1882

Species Classification

Triprion spatulatus is a species of large frog.

Size

Males reach 87 mm (3.4 in) and females reach 101 mm (4.0 in) in snout–vent length.

Head Shape

The head has broad labial flanges, which gives it a spoon-like shape.

Etymology

This shape is referenced in both the species-specific epithet spatulatus, from the Latin word spatulus meaning spoon, and the species' common name.

Eye Features

The eyes are moderately large, protuberant, and oriented anterolaterally.

Tympanum Features

The tympanum is visible, but is partially obscured by labial, postorbital ridges, or both.

Limb Structure

The fingers have large discs and some rudimentary webbing, while the toes are around two-thirds webbed.

Nominotypical Subspecies Coloration

For the nominotypical subspecies, the general body coloration is pale green or yellowish tan with flecks ranging from green to yellow.

Nominotypical Subspecies Body Part Coloring

The head is somewhat darker than the back, the flanks have a yellowish tint, and the venter is white, apart from grayish brown flecks in the vocal sac of breeding males.

T. s. reticulatus Coloration

The subspecies T. s. reticulatus has a pale yellowish tan or olive-green base color, patterned with dark brown or black reticulations and spots.

Habitat and Elevation Range

Triprion spatulatus inhabits lowland xeric and thorn-scrub forest, as well as tropical deciduous forest, at elevations up to 350 m (1,150 ft) above sea level.

Breeding

Breeding occurs in temporary streams and ponds created by rainfall, so it is limited to the rainy season.

Conservation Status and Threats

This is a common species that is not currently facing significant threats, although fire and changes in rainfall patterns are potential threats.

Protected Range Presence

Its known range includes the Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve.