Leptopelis

Description

Leptopelis are mostly medium-sized frogs (snout–vent length 26–42 mm (1.0–1.7 in)), but Leptopelis palmatus can reach 87 mm (3.4 in). Tympanum is present. Most species have expended digit tips.

Ecology

Leptopelis are mainly arboreal, but some species, especially in more arid areas, are terrestrial or even subfossorial. Breeding typically starts with the heavy rains in the beginning of the wet season. Eggs may be deposited either in water or in/on the ground. Development includes a free-living tadpole stage, with a possible exception of Leptopelis brevirostris, whose large eggs suggest that development could be direct. Males typically call in bushes or trees a meter or more above the ground.

Species

As of mid-October, 2019, there are 54 recognized species:

The AmphibiaWeb recognized one additional species, Leptopelis broadleyi.

In captivity

L. vermiculatus is found in international pet trade. They are hardy frogs that adapt well to captivity, and readily consume commercially available crickets.