Polypedates Leucomystax

Polypedates Leucomystax is the scientific name for the species in the Rhacophoridae family. 

There are multiple common names for this species: the four-lined tree frog, the common tree frog, and the golden tree frog. They are also known as ‘shrub frogs’ or ‘common Southeast Asian Tree Frog.’

What are the characteristics of these frogs?

Rhacophoridae are known to be arboreal, so they spend most of their lives on trees but other tree frogs prefer to live near bodies of water. They have big, wide eyes with horizontal pupils. Their skin is soft and always moist to the touch.

The most frequent color for their coat is brown, but it might be tinged in shades of red, orange, green, brown, or yellow. Some might even have striped backs. The average snout-vent length for males is 3.7–5.0cm (1.5–2.0 in), while females can grow to be  5.7–7.5mm (0.22–0.30 in) long. They have webbed feet and cushioned toes, common in tree and leaf frogs.

Where are these frogs located?

The original range of P. Leucomystax is found in Brunei, China, Cambodia, Indonesia, India, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. It has been introduced in other neighboring countries like Japan.

What is their natural habitat?

P. Leucomystax can be found in both wetlands and forests, as well as locations that experience seasonal floodings, such as shrublands, grasslands, intermittent rivers, freshwater lakes and marshes, springs, pastureland, plantation land, rural gardens, and ponds.

What is the diet of Polypedates Leucomystax?

The diet of P. Leucomystax consists mostly of small invertebrates, such as ants, crickets, flies, beetles, spiders, moths, and worms.

How do they reproduce?

In damp areas of the propagation, the male initiates through a duck-like mating call for the female. 

The female protects about 100 to 400 eggs which are in a foam nest that is attached to leaves or other objects (usually above the water surface). After 3 to 4 days, the eggs hatch. The tadpoles go out from the foam nest and into the water. Tadpoles will mature in about 7 weeks.

Can you keep them as pets?

You can keep tree frogs as pets. They often prefer to be alone but, if you must handle them, do so with caution. They are quite sensitive. Also, provide a tank that will allow them to climb and jump around.

Conclusion

The Polypedates Leucomystax is a species of shrub frog or tree frog that can be found in many parts of Southeast Asia. These frogs are known for their big, wide eyes and their soft, moist skin.

These frogs prefer to live in damp areas such as forests or wetlands. They typically eat small insects and are interesting pets. So, if you’re ever in Southeast Asia and see a frog on a tree, there’s a good chance it’s a Polypedates Leucomystax!