Brazilian tree frogs may be the first known amphibian pollinators

By Alexandria Ee
The Strait Times
May 29, 2023
Category: Forestry
Region: International

When the forest fauna goes to sleep, a tree frog prowls the coastal Atlantic Forest of Brazil during nightly expeditions in search of the milk fruit tree, drawn to the delectable nectar inside its trumpet-shaped flowers and the creamy white fruit. Xenohyla truncata frogs emerged from the flowers with pollen grains stuck to their backs, providing evidence that frogs may act as pollinators. It was the first time a frog – or any amphibian – has been observed pollinating a plant. Measuring about 3-4cm long and native to the state of Rio De Janeiro, the Xenohyla truncata – more commonly known as Izecksohn’s Brazilian Treefrog – has unlocked a new understanding of ecological interaction between flowering plants and amphibians.

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