OREOLALAX RHODOSTIGMATUS Meaning and
Definition
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Oreolalax rhodostigmatus is a species of frog belonging to the genus Oreolalax, which is part of the family Megophryidae. This amphibian species is commonly known as the Red-eyed Spadefoot Toad. Oreolalax rhodostigmatus is primarily found in the mountainous regions of southern China, particularly in the provinces of Yunnan and Sichuan.
In terms of physical characteristics, Oreolalax rhodostigmatus is a relatively small frog, with adult individuals typically measuring around 5 to 6 centimeters in length. It possesses a stout body and short limbs, which are adapted for a semi-aquatic life. The distinctive feature of this species is its reddish-orange eyes, from which its common name is derived. The eyes serve a crucial function as they allow the frog to see and locate prey in its habitat.
Oreolalax rhodostigmatus is mainly active during the summer months, when it emerges from its burrows and takes advantage of the wet conditions brought about by rains. It primarily inhabits montane grasslands and meadows, as well as forested areas densely covered in shrubs and bushes.
Overall, Oreolalax rhodostigmatus plays an important role in its ecosystem as an insect predator, feeding on a variety of small invertebrates like insects and spiders. Due to habitat loss and climate change, this frog species has faced population declines in recent years and is considered to be vulnerable according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Conservation efforts and further research are needed to protect and understand this unique amphibian.
Etymology of OREOLALAX RHODOSTIGMATUS
The term "oreolalax rhodostigmatus" is a scientific name given to a species of frog. Scientific names are developed using a standardized system called binomial nomenclature which was introduced by Carl Linnaeus in the 18th century.
The first part of the name, "oreolalax", is a genus name derived from Latin and Greek roots. "Oreo" means "mountain" in Greek, and "lalax" is derived from the Greek word "lalage", meaning "song" or "sound". Therefore, "oreolalax" roughly translates to "mountain singer" or "mountain sound".
The second part of the name, "rhodostigmatus", is a species name.
