Leptodactylidae
Leptodactylidae
Leptodactylidae includes a group a very diverse group terrestrial frogs , which respond to many different common names . There are 36 species in Peru , 15 in the Madre de Dios department and 16 in the Manu area of which we include 13 species in this guide . They vary in size and appearance with Adenomera species usually being quite small and Leptodactylus species somewhat larger . They are dull brown , tan or grey . They are powerful jumpers thanks to their strong long legs . They can be difficult to identify and there is still a high level of cryptic diversity to discover , as for example in the Adenomera genus .
Leptodactylidae species are known for the production of eggs in foam nests composed of glandular secretions whisked up using the hind legs . These nests are deposited at the edge of water bodies or in chambers away from water . Only 6-10 % of the eggs are fertilized and those remaining are eaten by developing tadpoles . The deposition of surplus eggs is thought to be a reproductive strategy that promotes tadpoles to stay within the nest thereby reducing the risk of predation . Similarly , some Adenomera species produce eggs rich in yolk to nourish their tadpoles . Other theories for the use of foam nests include protection from desiccation , improved oxygen supply and temperature control .
Leptodactylus pentdadactylus