Chaperina is a genus of frogs in the family Microhylidae. It is the only genus in the subfamily Chaperininae.[2] It is also itself monotypic, being represented by the single species, Chaperina fusca, commonly known as the brown thorny frog, spiny-heeled froglet, and saffron-bellied frog.[3] It is found on the Malay Peninsula, in Borneo and in the Philippines (Palawan, Mindanao, and Jolo islands).[3] It is abundant in Borneo but uncommon on the Malay Peninsula and patchily distributed in the Philippines.[1]
Chaperina fusca are small frogs: males measure 18–21mm (0.71–0.83in) in snout–vent length and females 20–26mm (0.79–1.02in). They are black above with minute white, light blue, or greenish spots. The skin is smooth with scattered tubercles; they have a sharp dermal projection on elbows and heel.[4]
These frogs are active after rainfall on forest floor and low vegetation; they are good climbers.[4]
Habitat and conservation
Its natural habitats are primary lowland and montane rainforests as well as edge habitats; it has also been found in rural gardens. It breeds in small, temporary water bodies rich in decaying organic matter.[1]
Threats to this species include deforestation, habitat conversion to agriculture, and pollution.[1]
↑ Frost, Darrel R. (2014). "Chaperina Mocquard, 1892". Amphibian Species of the World: an Online Reference. Version 6.0. American Museum of Natural History. Retrieved 25 June 2014.
1 2 Frost, Darrel R. (2014). "Chaperina fusca Mocquard, 1892". Amphibian Species of the World: an Online Reference. Version 6.0. American Museum of Natural History. Retrieved 25 June 2014.
1 2 "Chaperina fusca". Amphibians and Reptiles of Peninsular Malaysia. Archived from the original on July 22, 2011. Retrieved 25 June 2014.
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