Red-Eyed Treefrog

The red-eyed treefrog (Agalychnis callidryas) is the best-known and namesake representative of the red-eyed treefrogs (Agalychnis) within the family Phyllomedusidae. The griffon frogs are one of three families of tree frogs, which were formerly all grouped in the family of tree frogs. The systematic review currently distinguishes 13 species of Agalychnis, which are native to the Neotropics of Central and South America.

The frogs (Anura; also: Salientia) are by far the most species-rich of the three recent orders of the vertebrate class of amphibians. The other orders of amphibians are the caudates (Caudata, Urodela) and the creeping amphibians or blind amphibians (Gymnophiona). Most of the frogs are called "frogs" - without any closer relationship. The frogs also include toads and toads.

The terms frog and toad are not systematically clearly delineated. A "frog" is commonly understood to be a relatively slender, agile frog with rather smooth and moist skin and strong jumping legs. Example: the genus Rana (true frogs). In contrast, a "toad" is generally considered to be plump and stockily built. Their skin is rather dry and "warty". The comparatively short hind legs are only used for short hops and walking on all fours. Example: the genus Bufo (true toads). In reality, these demarcation characteristics are often blurred and cannot be confirmed in the taxonomy of amphibians. In contrast to the caudates, the frogs only have a tail during the larval phase in water. With metamorphosis to a terrestrial animal, this is regressed. Depending on the development of the hind legs, which are considerably longer than the front extremities, frogs move forward running, hopping or jumping far. Some can climb very well; others burrow in the ground or live permanently in the water.

As in all amphibians, the bone structure is partially reduced. Thus, except for a few species of the suborder Archaeobatrachia, they have no ribs. In contrast to the caudates, the shoulder girdle of the frogs is ossified and equipped with a clavicle. The hip region is particularly sturdily built and has limb insertions positioned conspicuously far back to be suitable for the enormous leverage and thrusting action when jumping. The skin can be smooth or warty. It is interspersed with mucous glands that keep the surface moist and allow skin respiration. Many species also have body glands that produce a toxic protective and defensive secretion. Pigment cells are responsible for varied colouration and markings.