COPHIXALUS Meaning and
Definition
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Cophixalus is a genus of small frogs belonging to the family Microhylidae, commonly known as "rain frogs" or "narrow-mouthed frogs". These frogs are primarily found in the rainforests of New Guinea and various islands in the western Pacific region.
The members of the genus Cophixalus are typified by their small size, usually measuring less than 2 centimeters in length. They have a distinctive body shape which is short and robust, with a rounded snout, relatively large eyes, and short limbs. Their skin is smooth and may exhibit varied colors or patterns, often serving as a form of camouflage within their habitat.
These frogs are primarily terrestrial and are predominantly active at night. They can climb trees and shrubs, but are often found on the forest floor near leaf litter or in close proximity to small streams or moist areas. Their diet mainly consists of small invertebrates such as ants, beetles, and spiders.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Cophixalus frogs is their unique reproductive behavior. Rather than laying eggs like many other frog species, Cophixalus females give birth to fully-formed froglets. This mode of reproduction, known as viviparity, is rather rare among amphibians and allows the female to provide her offspring with greater protection and nourishment during development.
Overall, Cophixalus frogs play an essential ecological role in their respective ecosystems and contribute to the biodiversity of the rainforests in which they reside.
Etymology of COPHIXALUS
The word "Cophixalus" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek terms: "kopos" meaning "labor" or "fatigue", and "ixalus" meaning "delicate" or "smooth". Together, "Cophixalus" roughly translates to "delicate labor" or "smooth effort". "Cophixalus" is the scientific genus name for a group of small frogs belonging to the family Microhylidae.
