Boana – Gladiator frogs

This genus includes a wide variety of tree-dwelling frogs found throughout Central and South America, especially in tropical forests, rainforests, and cloud forests. These frogs are members of the Hylidae family, also known as tree frogs, and they get the nickname “gladiator frogs” because of the males’ fierce territorial behavior — some even grow sharp thumb spines they use in combat with rival males during the breeding season.

Physically, Boana frogs range from small to medium-sized, and most have slender bodies, long legs, and wide toe pads that help them grip leaves and climb through vegetation. Their coloration varies wildly — some species are dull brown or green to blend into the forest, while others are brightly colored or patterned, especially in the tropics. One common trait is their nocturnal lifestyle. Most Boana species are active at night when they emerge to hunt insects and call to attract mates. Their calls range from chirps and trills to deep croaks, often heard after rain or near temporary forest pools.

What really sets many Boana species apart is their unique breeding behavior. Males will often compete for access to breeding sites, and in some species, this gets intense — they’ll wrestle, shove, and even slash at each other with keratinized thumb spines, giving rise to the “gladiator” name. These fights can be fierce but are usually ritualistic, with each frog trying to overpower or drive away competitors rather than cause serious harm.

Some Boana frogs lay their eggs on leaves overhanging water. When the eggs hatch, the tadpoles drop straight into the pond or stream below, a clever way to avoid aquatic predators that might prey on eggs left directly in the water. In certain species, males will even guard the eggs to protect them from predators and fungus.