leptodactyla

Leptodactyla is a historical genus name that appears in older zoological literature for certain Neotropical frogs. In modern taxonomy, Leptodactyla is not recognized as a valid genus. The species formerly assigned to Leptodactyla have largely been transferred to the genus Leptodactylus within the family Leptodactylidae, with some transfers to other genera as revisions clarified relationships using morphology and molecular data.

Etymology: the name derives from Greek leptos meaning thin and daktylos meaning finger or toe, reflecting the slender digits often associated with related frogs.

Taxonomic history: The designation was applied by early taxonomists to diverse frogs, sometimes without consistent diagnostic features. As systematic studies progressed in the 20th and 21st centuries, the name was increasingly treated as a synonym or unused, and species were redistributed according to revised genera.

Distribution and habitat: Historically, the frogs described under Leptodactyla were reported from tropical Central and South America, including rainforest and savanna environments, frequently near temporary water bodies used for breeding.

Biology and conservation: Because current taxonomy treats Leptodactyla as non-valid, biological details are taken from the revised genera (primarily Leptodactylus) and species level. Many Neotropical frogs face habitat loss and disease pressures such as chytridiomycosis, with conservation status varying by species and range.

Notes: For clarifications on species placement, consult contemporary taxonomic databases such as Amphibian Species of the World or AmphibiaWeb.