Animal Profiles
Amphibians

Glass Frog

Centrolenidae

Living

Living individuals or members of this group exist today. This does not mean they are safe from extinction.

Glass frogs are small tree-dwelling amphibians with translucent undersides. This account describes the northern glass frog (Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni), which breeds beside forest streams.

Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni (glass frog)

Representative species: Hyalinobatrachium fleischmanni.

Carlos Funes · CC BY

At a glance

Habitat
Rainforest, Rivers and lakes
Diet
Insectivore
Food
Small insects and other invertebrates.

Classification

Common name
Glass Frog
Browse group
Amphibians
Scientific name or taxon
Centrolenidae
Taxon rank
family
Order
Anura
Family
Centrolenidae
Source classification
Amphibia

Taxonomy checked against GBIF. For breeds and hybrids, this describes the listed parent taxon.

Three things to know

  • Its underside is translucent.
  • Males call from leaves over streams.
  • Expanded toe pads help it grip vegetation.

Habitat and range

Northern glass frogs occupy humid forest around clear streams in southern Mexico and Central America. The older source includes a broader northern South American range, which is not extended here without a modern taxonomic review.

Appearance and adaptations

The back is pale green with small spots. Transparent skin beneath the body reveals internal structures, while expanded toe pads help the frog hold leaves and branches.

Diet and behaviour

Males call from leaves above water and defend calling sites. Small insects and other tiny invertebrates are the likely prey; the cited account notes that direct feeding studies were limited.

Sources

Explore amphibians

Browse all amphibians