Hyalinobatrachium fragile

Hyalinobatrachium fragile
Conservation status
Near Threatened  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Amphibia
Order:	Anura
Family:	Centrolenidae
Genus:	Hyalinobatrachium
Species:	H. fragile
Binomial name
Hyalinobatrachium fragile (Rivero, 1985)
Synonyms
Centrolenella fragilis Rivero, 1985 Hyalinobatrachium fragilis

Hyalinobatrachium fragile is a species of frog in the family Centrolenidae. It is endemic to the Venezuelan Coastal Range.^[2] In Spanish it is known as ranita de cristal fragil.^[1]

Its natural habitats are montane forests, where it occurs along streams. It is threatened by habitat loss caused by agriculture and logging as well as landslides.^[1]

The Hyalinobatrachium fragile, thrives in both primary and secondary forests spanning the northern slope and central regions of the Cordillera de la Costa in Venezuela. Its habitat extends to Sierra de Aroa, Macizo de Nirgua, and the mountains system in the northern Cojedes state, ranging from 100 to 1,400 meters above sea level. This arboreal and nocturnal species is commonly found in gallery forests lining permanent or seasonal streams within montane forests. Notably, it displays adaptability to some degree of habitat modification, showcasing its resilience in the face of environmental changes.^[1]

In 2018, promising observations were made in Altos of Canoabo, Carabobo state, as dozens of reproductive adults, pairs in amplexus, and egg clutches were documented during the rainy season. However, the Hyalinobatrachium fragile faces significant threats. Deforestation and habitat fragmentation, driven by urban expansion and agricultural activities, jeopardize its habitat. The species is also at risk due to water pollution resulting from these activities. Concerningly, the forest vegetation in the Cordillera de La Costa, its primary habitat, has been classified as Endangered or Critically Endangered in certain elevational ranges. Urgent conservation efforts are needed to mitigate these threats and ensure the survival of this unique amphibian.^[1]

The Hyalinobatrachium fragile belongs to the diverse realm of amphibians and holds a significant place in the taxonomy of frogs. Identified through its arboreal and nocturnal nature, this species is known for its green hue. Males of the species exhibit a unique behavior of calling from the underside of leaves, positioning themselves 1 to 3 meters above the water. The reproductive process involves egg clutches of 20–25 eggs laid on the underside of leaves, with tadpoles falling into the water to complete their development. Notably, this species displays parental care, a distinctive trait in its reproductive strategy. The intricacies of its taxonomy, behaviors, and ecological role contribute to the broader understanding of the biodiversity within the amphibian world.^[1]

The primary threat to Hyalinobatrachium fragile comes from the relentless expansion of urban areas and the encroachment of agricultural activities. Deforestation and habitat fragmentation are direct consequences, as the species' habitat diminishes due to the demand for land for both commercial and subsistence agriculture.^[1]

Urbanization and agricultural practices contribute to water pollution, which adversely affects Hyalinobatrachium fragile. The leaching of pollutants into water reservoirs disrupts the delicate aquatic environment essential for the species. Simultaneously, the abstraction of surface water for domestic and commercial use intensifies concerns, further compromising the species' habitat.^[1]

A burgeoning illegal gold mining industry in the mountain chain of Carabobo state poses a significant and rapidly increasing threat. This activity, occurring along rivers and streams, directly impacts Hyalinobatrachium fragile and poses a broader risk to riparian amphibian communities in the Cordillera de La Costa. Urgent measures are needed to curtail this destructive practice and protect these fragile ecosystems.^[1]