Eleutherodactylus

Eleutherodactylus is a genus of frogs in the family Eleutherodactylidae, native to the Caribbean and Central America. The genus was first described by American zoologist Edward Drinker Cope in 1866. The name Eleutherodactylus is derived from the Greek words "eleutheros," meaning "free," and "daktylos," meaning "finger," referring to the absence of webbing between the toes.

Eleutherodactylus species are small to medium-sized frogs, typically ranging from 1.5 to 4 centimeters in length. They are known for their distinctive coloration, which often includes bright patterns and colors. Many species exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males often being more brightly colored than females.

These frogs are arboreal and inhabit a variety of habitats, including rainforests, cloud forests, and montane forests. They are often found near water sources and are known to be active during the day. Eleutherodactylus species play an important role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey.

The genus includes over 100 species, with many of them being recently described. Some well-known species include Eleutherodactylus antillensis, Eleutherodactylus coqui, and Eleutherodactylus planirostris. The latter is notable for its unique call, which is often described as a "cooing" sound.

Eleutherodactylus species face various threats, including habitat loss due to deforestation and climate change. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these frogs and their habitats.