Cacopus

Cacopus  systoma is a species of narrow-mouthed frog found in Pakistan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. It is known under many different common names: indistinct frog, marbled balloon frog, and lesser balloon frog.

DESCRIPTION

• As the common names suggest, Cacopus  systoma have a very stout appearance with a relatively small head. They grow up to 64 mm (2.5 in) in snout–vent length.

• It is characterized by its bulbous body, which is often covered in small, dark bumps. The frog has a short snout and large, prominent eyes. The hind legs are long and powerful, while the forelegs are shorter and weaker.

• A pair of prominent ridges on the head, running from the eyes to the snout. A pair of large, oval-shaped parotoid glands on the back of the head. A pair of small, round vocal sacs on the throat. A row of small bumps along the outer edge of the forearms and hind legs

• The Marbled Balloon Frog is most easily identified by its unique coloration. The body is typically a light brown or gray color, with a marbled pattern of darker brown or black spots. The underside of the frog is lighter in color, often with a yellowish or cream tint.

• Cacopus systoma lack teeth. This unusual feature is probably related to their diet that (after metamorphosis) consists mainly of termites and ants, with other insects appearing in smaller numbers. It is suggested that in capturing such small but spatially clustered prey items teeth would not be very useful; instead, the prey are gathered using their tongue.

REPRODUCTION

• The Marbled Balloon Frog, reproduces through direct development, meaning that the eggs hatch into froglets without going through a tadpole stage. The frogs breed during the monsoon season, when the water levels are high.

• The males attract females by calling from elevated perches. Once a female is attracted, the male will lead her to a suitable breeding site, such as a pool of water or a flooded area. The female will then lay her eggs in the water.

• The eggs hatch within a few days, and the froglets emerge fully formed. The froglets are relatively independent from the start and can fend for themselves. They reach maturity at around one year old.

• The Marbled Balloon Frog is a relatively prolific breeder, and females can lay up to 1,000 eggs at a time. However, the froglets have a high mortality rate, and only a small percentage of them survive to adulthood.

HABITAT

Caccopus systoma is a fossorial species that buries itself in soil. These frogs have been observed in a number of habitats, such as dry forests, plains, gardens, and agricultural areas. Adults are only seen during the summer monsoons; otherwise they retreat into the soil.