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Eleutherodactylus is a diverse genus of leptodactylid frogs. This is the largest vertebrate genus, with over 700 species. Species of this genus are located in the southern United States, Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Additionally, Eleutherodactylus coqui has been introduced to several islands in the Hawaiian archipelago.

Species of Eleutherodactylus are generally cryptically colored. They may be terrestrial, arboreal, or riparian. Eleutherodactylus primarily feed upon arthropods. All species of Eleutherodactylus are characterized by direct development, in which eggs hatch directly into small frogs, completely bypassing the tadpole stage. This adaptation may be largely responsible for their ecological and evolutionary success. Most species of Eleutherodactylus are characterized by parental behaviors such as egg guarding by either the male or female parent. In some cases, even young froglets are attended by parents. One species, Eleutherodactylus jasperi of Puerto Rico, gives birth to live young. And another species Eleutherodactylus cooki of Puerto Rico exhibits sexual dimorphism in size and color.

It is not clear that the genus Eleutherodactylus is a monophyletic group. All species share a common ancestor, but not all descendents of that ancestor are included within the genus Eleutherodactylus. Recent genetic studies have indicated that Eleutherodactylus actually constitutes at least two evolutionary lines that are not directly related. At least one of these evolutionary lines has been removed to the genus Craugastor.

The species Eleutherodactylus limbatus is considered the smallest frog and amphibian measuring only 8.5 mm.

Species


 

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the "Eleutherodactylus".

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