Marsupial Frogs (Family Hemiphractidae)
These strange frogs are found only in Central and South America. They are arboreal species and often have pointy-heads, and get their name from their unique mode of reproduction. Eggs are affixed to or brooded in a pouch on the mother’s back, where they develop into froglets. The exact classification of this group has recently been revised.
Gastrotheca cornuta
Conservation Score: 46 (high priority)
Status in Wild: Endangered. In severe decline and extirpated from Costa Rica and Western Panama due to Chytrid-related declines
Status in Captivity: 42 specimens in EVACC facility. Also present in US zoos.
Range: Costa Rica Panama, Colombia and Ecuador (up to 1000 m).
Habitat: Humid lowland and montane forest canopies.
Reproduction: Direct development, female carries eggs in a pouch on her back that hatch into froglets.
Reference: http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/55329
Hemiphractus fasciatus
Conservation Score: 45 (high priority)
Status in Wild: Near Threatened. A rare species presumed to be in decline.
Status in Captivity: 44 specimens in EVACC facility.
Range: Panama, Colombia and Ecuador (up to 1000 m).
Habitat: Undisturbed humid lowland and montane forest, where they prey on other frogs.
Reproduction: Direct development, female carries eggs on her back.
