Arcovomer


Arcovomer is a genus of frogs in the family Microhylidae. It is monotypic, being represented by the single species Arcovomer passarellii, commonly known as Passarelli's frog. It is endemic to south-eastern Brazil and found in Espírito Santo, Rio [de Janeiro (state)|Rio de Janeiro], and São [Paulo (state)|São Paulo] states. Frogs from Espírito Santo may represent another, undescribed species. The name honours Antonio Passarelli who collected the holotype.

Description and behaviour

Arcovomer passarellii is a small, slender-bodied frog. The male is about in snout–vent length, and the female. Its body is brown above with a distinct irregular dark pattern running the whole length of the animal.
Male frogs call after sunset. The advertisement call is a sharp, short whistle. When disturbed, these frogs may jump and then assume a stiff-leg posture, possibly as a means to avoid detection by predators relying on their sight.

Habitat and conservation

This species inhabits lowland primary and secondary forests. It is a ground-dwelling frog that breeds in temporary pools. Although it is a common species, it is declining in abundance, probably because of habitat loss.