Hoplophryne


Hoplophryne is a genus of microhylid frogs. The genus is endemic to mountain forests of Tanzania. They are also known as three-fingered frogs or African banana frogs.

Species

There are two species in this genus, both endangered:Hoplophryne rogersi Barbour and Loveridge, 1928Hoplophryne uluguruensis Barbour and Loveridge, 1928

Description

Hoplophryne are small frogs, reaching in snout–vent length. Their distinctive characters is that male frogs have only three fingers: the thumb is reduced to a small bump or group of spines.

Ecology and reproduction

Hoplophryne can be found in leaf litter, under logs, and in bananas and bamboos. Reproduction takes place in phytotelmata. The modified thumbs of males are probably involved in mating, helping the male to embrace the female.