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Southern Frogs of Zihuatanejo

NEOTROPICAL GRASS FROGS

The genus Leptodactylus is a large and diverse group of frogs belonging to the family Leptodactylidae. Commonly known as the southern frogs or thin-toed frogs, species of Leptodactylus are widely distributed throughout Central and South America, extending from southern Texas and Mexico to Argentina. They inhabit a variety of environments, including tropical rainforests, grasslands, savannas, marshes, and disturbed habitats near human settlements. Members of this genus are generally medium- to large-sized frogs with robust bodies, relatively long hind legs, and well-developed vocal sacs in males. Their coloration is usually brown, gray, olive, or tan, often with stripes, spots, or mottled patterns that provide camouflage among leaf litter and soil. Most species are nocturnal and become active during rainy periods when breeding occurs.

​The Sabinal Frog (Leptodactylus melanonotus) is the the only species of Southern Frog (family Leptodactylidae) documented in the Zihuatanejo area.

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