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Annam tree frog

The Annam tree frog, scientifically known as Hyla simplex, is a species of tree frog found in southern China, Vietnam, and Laos. It is characterized by its arboreal lifestyle, inhabiting montane areas like fields, bamboo forests, and shrubland, and breeds in rice paddies and permanent pools. A subspecies, the Hainan tree toad (H. s. hainanensis), is found on Hainan Island.

Key Facts

  • Found in southern China, Vietnam, and Laos.
  • Males reach approximately 37 MM snout-vent length, females up to 40 MM.
  • Commonly inhabits montane areas, including fields, bamboo forests, and shrubland.
  • Breeding occurs in rice paddies and permanent pools.
  • Potentially threatened by habitat degradation.
  • Includes a subspecies, the Hainan tree toad (H. s. hainanensis).
Annam tree frog
Scientific Name
Hyla simplex
Family
Hylidae
Common Names

South China Tree Toad

Description
The Annam tree frog is a species of frog belonging to the Hylidae family. Adult males typically measure around 37 mm in snout-to-vent length, while females are slightly larger, reaching up to 40 mm. The tadpoles of this species can grow up to 32 mm in length. It is known for its arboreal nature, commonly found in elevated areas.
Habitat Description
This species inhabits montane areas, demonstrating an arboreal lifestyle. Its preferred environments include fields, bamboo forests, and shrubland. For breeding purposes, the Annam tree frog utilizes rice paddies and permanent pools, suggesting a reliance on both terrestrial and aquatic habitats for different life stages.
Breeding Behavior
Breeding for the Annam tree frog occurs in rice paddies and permanent pools. This suggests a preference for still or slow-moving water bodies for reproductive activities.
Size Range Mm
37-40 mm (snout-vent length)
Habitat Type

Montane Areas, Fields, Bamboo Forests, Shrubland, Rice Paddies, Permanent Pools

Distinguishing Features

Arboreal Lifestyle, Inhabits Montane Areas

About Annam tree frog

The Annam tree frog, scientifically classified as Hyla simplex, is a species of frog belonging to the Hylidae family. This amphibian is native to southern China, Vietnam, and Laos. A distinct subspecies, known as the Hainan tree toad (H. s. hainanensis), is found specifically on Hainan Island.

Habitat and Lifestyle

Annam tree frogs are commonly found in montane environments. They lead an arboreal existence, meaning they spend a significant amount of time in trees and other elevated vegetations. Their preferred habitats include open fields, bamboo forests, and shrubland areas. This species is known to utilize rice paddies and permanent pools for breeding, indicating a dependence on both terrestrial and aquatic environments throughout its life cycle.

Physical Characteristics and Reproduction

Adult male Annam tree frogs typically reach a snout-to-vent length of approximately 37 mm (about 1.5 inches). Females are slightly larger, with measurements up to 40 mm (about 1.6 inches) for the same body length. The tadpoles of this species can grow to a length of up to 32 mm (about 1.3 inches).

Conservation Concerns

While considered common in its natural range, the Annam tree frog faces potential threats from habitat degradation. The ongoing loss or alteration of its natural environments poses a risk to the long-term survival of the species.

Source: Wikipedia ↗

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of the Annam tree frog?

The scientific name of the Annam tree frog is Hyla simplex. It is also sometimes referred to as the South China tree toad.

Where can the Annam tree frog be found?

The Annam tree frog is distributed across southern China, Vietnam, and Laos. A specific subspecies is found on Hainan Island.

What is the typical size of an Annam tree frog?

Male Annam tree frogs typically grow to a snout-vent length of about 37 mm (1.5 inches), while females can reach up to 40 mm (1.6 inches). Their tadpoles can be up to 32 mm (1.3 inches) in length.

What kind of habitat does the Annam tree frog prefer?

Annam tree frogs are common and arboreal, preferring montane areas. Their habitats include fields, bamboo forests, and shrubland.

Where do Annam tree frogs breed?

Breeding for the Annam tree frog takes place in rice paddies and in permanent pools, indicating a need for aquatic environments for reproduction.