The mangrove frog, scientifically known as the Fejervarya Cancrivora, is widely distributed in Southeast Asia like China and the Philippines. It is most commonly found at the edges of tidal prawn ponds, on the banks of brackish meanders, and in freshwater areas.
Although there are many of these species, humans– through over-harvesting, destroying habitats, cutting down mangrove forests, expanding settlements, and building roads– may pose a threat to their populations. They are also being consumed by humans in some areas of their distribution as a traditional delicacy.
Physical Appearance
A mangrove frog is a small to medium-sized frog. It has a Snout-Vent Length of 68.2mm and the head has small,wart-like growths on the sides. The coloration of this animal ranges from brown with a little shade of green to gray, and darker bars are scattered on its lips and hindlimbs. The venter or underside of the mangrove frog is usually whitish, although it can have darker markings.
These frogs have long toes with webbing and dermal fringes, similar to other frog species. The head is medium-sized and narrow with an oval snout. They look like typical frogs, with large hind limbs for jumping.
Diet and Predators
The mangrove frog’s primary food sources come from the insects that live near its freshwater habitat. In an environment with water that is a mixture of fresh and salt, small crustaceans such as crabs are the main part.
Mangrove frogs are an appetizing food for so many animals, they’re constantly at risk of being eaten by predators from the sky, land, and water. Some frog-eating predators include snakes, big lizard species, and birds like herons. Humans are also known to consume them.
Final Thoughts
The Mangrove Frog is a small amphibian that can be found in the mangroves of tropical and subtropical regions around the world. They are able to withstand brief ventures into seawater, which puts them in an elite group of only 144 modern amphibians. With a little help from humans, these fascinating creatures can continue to thrive in the wild for years to come.
Mangrove Frog Featured Image by: W.A. Djatmiko (Wie146), CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
