MICROHYLID Meaning and
Definition
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Microhylid is a noun that refers to a member of the family Microhylidae, which encompasses a diverse group of small frogs commonly found in tropical regions worldwide. These amphibians are characterized by their diminutive size and unique anatomical features.
Microhylids typically exhibit a compact body shape, measuring between 1 to 5 centimeters in length, which allows them to thrive in various terrestrial and arboreal habitats. They possess adhesive toe pads that assist in climbing trees and vegetation, aiding in their arboreal lifestyle. Moreover, these frogs are known for their distinctive calls, emitting a high-pitched, whistling sound to attract mates during the breeding season.
Due to their small size and secretive nature, microhylids often have intricate color patterns and skin textures that directly aid in camouflage. Their diet comprises a wide range of arthropods and small invertebrates, which they capture with their sticky tongues.
Microhylids are known for their unique reproductive behavior. Many species lay their eggs on the forest floor, which undergo external development, while others exhibit direct development, producing fully formed froglets. Some microhylids even have specialized reproductive structures, such as brood pouches, in which they carry their fertilized eggs until hatching.
As a crucial component of global biodiversity, microhylids play vital ecological roles, functioning as both predator and prey and contributing to nutrient cycling within their respective ecosystems. They also serve as indicators of environmental quality due to their sensitivity to habitat disturbances.
Etymology of MICROHYLID
The word "microhylid" is a scientific term referring to a family of small frogs known as Microhylidae. The etymology of the word can be broken down as follows:
1. Micro: This prefix comes from the Greek word "mikros", meaning "small" or "tiny". It is often used in scientific terminology to indicate something minute or on a small scale.
2. Hylid: This term originates from the family name Hylidae, which refers to tree frogs. The word "Hylid" is derived from the Greek word "hulē", meaning "forest" or "woodland".
Therefore, "microhylid" essentially means "small forest frog" or "tiny tree frog", reflecting the characteristics of the frogs found in the Microhylidae family.
