Physalaemus rupestris, also known as the Ibitipoca dwarf frog, is a species of frog in the family Leptodactylidae. It is endemic to Brazil.
Habitat The frog lives in marshland within highly specific savannah and shrubland habitats within campos rupestres. Scientists have seen this frog between above sea level.
Scientists know the frog from exactly two places, both inside protected areas: Parque Estadual do Ibitipoca and Parque Estadual da Serra Negra da Mantiqueira.
Reproduction This frog deposits its eggs in a foam nest that floats on the water. The tadpoles develop in water.
Threats The IUCN classifies this species as endangered. Its principal threat is habitat loss associated with agriculture and fire. In 2019, the newly elected Brazilian administration rolled back legal protections, and damage from both accidental fires and arson increased. Because the frogs can only live in campos rupestres microhabitats with highly specific humidity, they may also be in danger from climate change.
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