Craugastor

A diverse group of terrestrial frogs native to Central and parts of northern South America, including countries like Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, and beyond. Commonly known as “barking frogs” or “direct-developing frogs,” many species in this genus live in tropical forests, cloud forests, and montane environments, often hiding among leaf litter or on moist forest floors. With over 100 species, Craugastor is one of the largest frog genera in the world, and its members come in a wide range of sizes, colors, and patterns.

One of the defining characteristics of Craugastor frogs is their unique reproductive strategy called direct development. Unlike most frogs, which lay eggs in water that hatch into tadpoles, Craugastor frogs lay their eggs on land, often in moist, hidden spots. The eggs then develop into tiny froglets, emerging fully formed — miniature versions of adults — without ever needing to swim as tadpoles. This adaptation allows them to live in areas where standing water may be limited or seasonal and makes them less dependent on aquatic environments.

Physically, Craugastor species vary widely. Some are small and cryptic, camouflaged in shades of brown and green to blend in with leaf litter, while others have more vibrant markings. Many species are known for their rough, granular skin, broad heads, and strong legs adapted for short hops rather than long jumps. Their coloration often helps them avoid predators, and some species are extremely well-camouflaged, becoming nearly invisible when still. They are primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants, beetles, and other small invertebrates.