Liuixalus romeri (Smith, 1953)
Romer's Tree Frog 盧氏小樹蛙
 



Taxonomy

Order Anura
Family Rhacophoridae
Scientific name Liuixalus romeri
Chinese name 盧氏小樹蛙
Common name Romer's Tree Frog

Description

Size 5 - 7.5 cm
Description
  • Medium-sized frog
  • Back dark brown with orange or pink mustard marking
  • Underside mottled brown
  • Hind feet with horny plates which act as spades for digging


Habitat and Ecology

Habitat

Forests, cultivated farmland and ponds, with significant use of urban structures like manholes and artificial ponds.
Activity Nocturnal
Behaviour

It prefers to rest on low bushes and grasses. It inhabits in well-wooded flat areas near a small stream or other water source convenient for breeding.

Diet Earthworms, ants and other insects.


Reproduction

Breeding period March to September.
It breeds in shaded, still or slow-flowing waters that are fish free and are low in nutrient content.
Mating call
(Please click to play) 
Larvae Small and brown.
Egg  

 

Distribution and Conservation

Distribution

Endemic species in Hong Kong.
Naturally occurs in four outlying islands of Hong Kong. It was first discovered in Lamma Island in 1952. This species can also be found in Chek Lap Kok island, Po Toi Island and Lantau Island. Due to the construction of new airport at Chek Lap Kok islands, captive breeding and relocation was done in various part of New Territories (e.g. Tai Po Kau, Tai Lam Country Park ) and Hong Kong Island (e.g. Tai Tam Reservoir).

Conservation status (IUCN)

 Least Concern

 

Gallery

adult 2 adult 3
adult 4 adult 1

 

 

References
Bossuyt, F. & Dubois, A., 2001.A review of the frog genus Philautus Gistel, 1848 (Amphibia, Anura, Ranidae, hacophorinae). Zeylanica 6: 1–112

Banks, C. B., Lau, W. N. & Dudgeon, D., 2008. Captive management and breeding of Romer's tree frog Chirixalus romeri. International Zoo Yearbook 42: 99-108.