The eastern ghost frog (Heleophryne orientalis) is a species of frog in the family Heleophrynidae.
It is endemic to Western Cape Province, South Africa. Its natural habitats are forest patches surrounded by mountain fynbos heathland. Adult frogs live near slow-to-swift-flowing perennial mountain streams in isolated canyons. They are typical sit-and-wait predators that hunt at night near the splash zone of the mountain streams. Breeding takes place in fast-flowing, perennial streams. Clutches of 120–190 eggs are laid in extra-aquatic under moss-covered rocks. Like many frogs, their muscles and internal organs are visible due to their lower body being transparent. Distinguished within its taxonomic group, this species is well-known for its exceptional anatomical traits. Most prominently observed during the tadpole stage, their unique pigmentation sets them apart from other Heleophryids, capturing attention and fascination among researchers and enthusiasts alike. Their tadpoles take two years to complete their development and possess unique larval features such as the appearance of both the mandibular and the rostral cartilage.
The eastern ghost frog is a locally common species that is not significantly threatened, but is locally impacted by introduced species.
Translated Descriptions (5)
es
wikipedia
Heleophryne orientalis es una especie de anfibio anuro de la familia Heleophrynidae.
fr
wikipedia
Heleophryne orientalis est une espèce d'amphibiens de la famille des Heleophrynidae.
pl
wikipedia
Heleophryne orientalis – gatunek płaza bezogonowego z rodziny straszakowatych (Heleophrynidae). Endemit Republiki Południowej Afryki.
pt
wikipedia
Heleophryne orientalis é uma espécie de anfíbio da família Heleophrynidae.
É endémica da África do Sul.
Os seus habitats naturais são: florestas temperadas, matagais mediterrânicos, campos de gramíneas de clima temperado e rios.
Está ameaçada por perda de habitat.
sv
wikipedia
Heleophryne orientalis är en groddjursart som beskrevs av FitzSimons 1946. Heleophryne orientalis ingår i släktet Heleophryne och familjen Heleophrynidae. IUCN kategoriserar arten globalt som livskraftig. Inga underarter finns listade i Catalogue of Life.