Moropus

Moropus is a genus of frogs native to the Philippines, belonging to the family Microhylidae. The name "Moropus" is derived from the Greek words "moros" meaning "foolish" and "opus" meaning "work," a reference to the unusual breeding behavior of some species in this genus. The genus was first described by American herpetologist Edward Harrison Taylor in 1922.

Moropus frogs are small to medium-sized, with adults typically ranging from 1.5 to 4.5 centimeters in snout-to-vent length. They are characterized by their smooth skin, which may be smooth or slightly granular, and the presence of nuptial pads on the fingers and toes of the males. These pads are used for amplexus, a unique mating behavior where the male wraps his legs around the female's body to transfer sperm.

The genus currently contains 17 recognized species, all of which are endemic to the Philippines. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and even urban areas. Many species are known for their distinctive calls, which can be used to identify individuals and species.

Moropus frogs play an important role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey. They are also of interest to scientists studying amphibian biology and conservation, due to their unique breeding behaviors and the threats they face from habitat loss and climate change. However, many species are currently listed as endangered or vulnerable due to these pressures.