Hairy Frog’s Adaptations and Environment Essay

Adaptations

One of the most unique adaptations of the Wolverine Frog is its natural ability to break its own bones in order to unleash a sharp claw that offers protection against predators (Iszatt par. 3). This claw is located on its feet and only appears when the frog is in danger of attack. It releases the claw by contracting the muscles in its rear feet and causing the claw to appear by piercing the frog’s skin (Wood 23). Another adaptation is the presence of hairy strands on males during the breeding season (“The Cabinet of Freshwater Curiosities: The Hairy Frog” par. 2). The strands (papillae) are an adaptation that allows the frogs to breathe for longer periods underwater while protecting unhatched eggs from predators (Wells 48). The papillae facilitate a process known as cutaneous respiration.

Environment

The environment of the frog comprises rivers, streams, and dense forests (Bartlett and Bartlett 29). The frogs are terrestrial for most of the year and relocate to freshwater habitats during the breeding season. The Hairy Frog is common in Equatorial Guinea, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Nigeria, and Cameroon (Wells 36). Its habitat includes fast-flowing rivers and streams as well as agricultural land. Therefore, their environment comprises both terrestrial and freshwater habitats.