Walker's marsupial frog (Gastrotheca walkeri) is a species of frog in the family Hemiphractidae. It is endemic to Venezuela.
Habitat People see this frog on bushes, trees, and palm fronds, about above the ground in submontane moist forests and cloud forests. People hear the male frogs call frogs from bromeliad plants. This frog is sympatric with G. ovifera and Flectonotus pygmaeus. Scientists have seen the frog between above sea level.
The frog's known range overlaps two protected parks: Henri Pittier National Park and Yurubí National Park.
Reproduction The female frog carries her eggs on her back. This frog breeds through direct development with no free-swimming tadpole stage.
Threats The IUCN classifies this species as vulnerable to extinction. The principal threats are habitat loss and deforestation in favor of urbanization, agriculture, and swine farming. The frog is also in danger from pollution. Scientists have detected the fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in the area. Many other frogs in the area have suffered from chytridiomycosis.
References