More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Frogs of Zihuatanejo
ORDER ANURA
-Vertebrates (Subphylum Vertebrata)
-Frogs and Toads (Order Anura)
-Southern Frogs (Family Leptodactylidae)
-Subfamily (Leptodactylinae)
-Neotropical Grass Frogs (Genus Leptodactylus)
-Sabinal Frog (Leptodactylus melanonotus)
The Leptodactylus melanonotus sabinal frog is a species of frog native to the tropical lowlands of Central America. It feeds on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates. During the mating season, males gather around temporary pools and call to attract females. This frog is found in the dry forest habitats of Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. It has a semi-aquatic lifestyle and is often seen near streams and other water sources. It is a shy species that tends to hide during the day and become active at night.
Sabinal Frog
Leptodactylus melanonotus
Description
Leptodactylus melanonotus, commonly called the black-backed or black-spotted frog, is a medium-sized frog in the family Leptodactylidae. Adults have a moderately robust body, long hind legs, a pointed snout, and granular skin with prominent dorsolateral folds. The colour is generally brown, greyish-brown, or olive-brown, often with darker markings and a characteristic dark area along the back and sides.
Range
Leptodactylus melanonotus occurs from Mexico through Central America into northern South America, with populations also present in parts of the Caribbean region. It is widespread along Mexico's Pacific slope, including Guerrero, and occurs around Zihuatanejo in suitable wet and seasonal habitats.
Habitat
This frog is associated with tropical and subtropical lowland environments, including tropical dry forest, wet forest, scrub, grassland, agricultural areas, and disturbed habitats near water. Adults are often found around ponds, streams, marshy areas, temporary pools, and other moist locations, becoming particularly active during the rainy season.
Diet
Adults are opportunistic predators that feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, spiders, ants, beetles, and other arthropods. Tadpoles are aquatic and feed primarily on algae, microorganisms, and organic particles in shallow water.