The mission golden-eyed tree frog, scientifically known as Agalychnis moreletii, is a captivating amphibian species native to parts of Mexico and Central America. These frogs are known for their striking appearance, with large, bulging eyes and vibrant green coloration that helps them blend seamlessly into their arboreal habitat. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of the mission golden-eyed tree frog, exploring its habitat preferences, dietary requirements, and the intricate details of its life cycle.
Did you know?These nocturnal frogs live high in the canopy of tropical rainforests. Their backs are covered in warts that are granular glands, which produce a secretion that serves to ward off predators. If at all, these frogs rarely come down to the ground. They lay their eggs in tree cavities filled with water, which is where the tadpoles develop. The males have an exceptionally large vocal sac, with which they make characteristic loud calls.
Habitat and Distribution
Mission golden-eyed tree frogs thrive in tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, often found clinging to the lush vegetation along the banks of streams, rivers, and ponds. Their range extends from southern Mexico, through Guatemala, Belize, and into parts of Honduras. These frogs prefer areas with high humidity and moderate temperatures, typically between 21–30 °C (70–86 °F).
Mission golden-eyed tree frogs are found in the tropical rain forests of South America. Populations are widespread in Guyana, Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador and Peru. They often inhabit vegetation which extends over permanent, slow-moving water sources.
Physical Characteristics
One of the most distinctive features of the mission golden-eyed tree frog is its large, protruding eyes, which are a vibrant golden-yellow color. Their bodies are slender and elongated, with long, powerful limbs adapted for climbing. The frogs’ skin is smooth and supple, with a bright green coloration that helps them blend seamlessly into the foliage of their arboreal habitat. When threatened, mission golden-eyed tree frogs can change their color to a dull brown or gray, making them even more difficult to spot.
| You can meet at the Racine Zoo: | Three individuals, sex and date of birth unknown |
| Location at the Racine Zoo: | In the Discovery Center |
| Scientific Name: | Trachycephalus resinifictrix |
| Conservation Status: | Least Concern |
| Lifespan: | Up to 20 years in human care |
| Adult Size: | 2.5 – 4 inches |
| Diet in the Wild: | Insects |
| Diet in the Zoo: | Crickets, mealworms |
| Habitat: | Canopies of tropical rainforests |
| Range: | Northern rainforests of South America |
| Threats: | Nearly every amphibian living in the Amazon is currently threatened by extreme loss of habitat due to deforestation (logging, farming) and the chytrid fungus outbreak. |
Diet and Feeding Habits
Mission golden-eyed tree frogs are carnivorous predators, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates found in their habitat. Their diet primarily consists of insects, such as crickets, moths, and flies, as well as spiders and other small arachnids. These frogs use their long, sticky tongues to capture their prey, which they then swallow whole.
Fun Facts:
- Mission golden-eyed tree frogs are also known as Amazon milk frogs and blue milk frogs
- This species of frog is known for beingarboreal and living almost exclusively incanopies of trees. Males find pools of waterwithin tree trunks and call females in toproduce young. He then calls additionalfemales,does not fertilize the eggs, andfeedsthemto the first young.
- Mission golden-eyed tree frogs’eggs hatch ina 24 hour period, an adaptation for laying eggsin temporary pools of water.
- Milk frogs are names for the milky-whitesubstance they secrete, which is poisonouswhen consumed by predators.
- The bumps seen on their backs are correlatedwith age–olderindividuals have more bumpson their body.
- These frogshave large disc pads on their feetto help them climb trees.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
The life cycle of the mission golden-eyed tree frog begins with the mating season, which typically occurs during the rainy season, from May to October. During this time, male frogs gather near bodies of water and engage in a loud, croaking call to attract females. Once a female has been attracted, the pair will engage in amplexus, a mating position in which the male grasps the female from behind.After mating, the female will lay a clutch of up to 100 eggs on the underside of leaves overhanging the water. The eggs will hatch into tadpoles, which drop into the water below. Tadpoles undergo a remarkable transformation, developing into fully-formed frogs over the course of several months. During this time, they undergo metamorphosis, developing their distinctive limbs, eyes, and skin coloration.
Once they have completed their metamorphosis, young mission golden-eyed tree frogs will leave the water and begin their arboreal life, climbing into the surrounding vegetation. These frogs reach sexual maturity at around one year of age and can live for up to five years in the wild.
Conservation Status
The mission golden-eyed tree frog is currently listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Their populations have declined due to habitat loss, deforestation, and the illegal pet trade. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these frogs and their habitats, including the establishment of protected areas and the promotion of sustainable forestry practices.
the mission golden-eyed tree frog is a fascinating and unique amphibian species that plays a vital role in the tropical and subtropical ecosystems of Mexico and Central America. By understanding their habitat preferences, dietary requirements, and life cycle, we can better appreciate the intricate web of life that sustains these remarkable creatures. Through conservation efforts and continued research, we can ensure that the mission golden-eyed tree frog continues to thrive in its natural habitat for generations to come.