IUCN Species of the Day: São Tomé Giant Treefrog

 

The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(tm)

Photo credit: D. Lin, California Academy of Sciences

 

The São Tomé Giant Treefrog, Hyperolius thomensis, is listed as ‘ENDANGERED’ on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™.  The largest member of its genus, this remarkable species is endemic to primary rainforest on the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea.

A notoriously difficult species to find, very little is known about the threats to the São Tomé Giant Treefrog.  However, as a consequence of historically high levels of deforestation to make way for coffee and cocoa plantations, the species is now likely to be restricted to forest fragments at altitudes above 800 metres.  Urban and agricultural encroachment, livestock overgrazing and firewood collection are all thought to be continuing to threaten this species’ habitat.

Although there are no known specific conservation measures in place for the São Tomé Giant Treefrog, much of its range is encompassed by the Obo National Park, offering this elusive species some sanctuary.  However, with so little known about its ecology, population status, or threats, further studies are urgently required.

 

Geographic Range of the São Tomé Giant TreefrogCredit: IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™

 

To learn more about the São Tomé Giant Treefrog, click here.  Or visit the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™ by clicking their logo below.

 

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To learn more about the Bush Warriors “Species of the Day” feature, please click here and read up on our initiative to raise awareness about the loss of earth’s biodiversity.

 

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