Psychedelic Pebas!

Pebas stubfoot toad (Atelopus spumarius)

Pebas stubfoot toad (Atelopus spumarius)

Cute Frog of the Week: June 4, 2012

Throughout the Amazonian basin, which ranges through Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Guyana, Colombia and Suriname, lives a tiny toad called the Pebas stubfoot toad, scientifically known as Atelopus spumarius.

It’s a small amphibian with an interestingly flattened body. An intricate net-like pattern encompasses the toad’s  back in a collection of greens and browns. What’s really eye catching though, is the toad’s underbelly. The stubfoot toad’s feet, hands and posterior surface of the belly are a vibrant pink/red color!

This species of amphibian is listed as “vulnerable” on the IUCN’s Red List and reports of the population have indicated a steady decline in numbers. Hopefully, efforts can be made to prevent this population from further declining. After all, the world would be a little less colorful without the Pebas stubfoot toad.

Photo by Benjamin Tapley via Arkive.

Every week the Panama Amphibian Rescue and Conservation Project posts a new photo of a cute frog from anywhere in the world with an interesting, fun and unique story to tell. Be sure to check back every Monday for the latest addition.

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