Hemiphractidae – Marsupial frogs

A fascinating and unique group of amphibians found mostly in Central and South America, particularly in mountainous and forested regions like the Andes. What makes them truly stand out among frogs is their remarkable method of reproduction, which involves carrying their eggs—and sometimes even their developing tadpoles or froglets—on their backs. In some species, the female has a special pouch on her back where the eggs are placed, offering protection from predators, dehydration, and environmental hazards.

In other species, the eggs are carried openly on the female’s back, sticking in place like little pearls until they hatch. Depending on the species, the eggs might hatch into free-swimming tadpoles or skip the tadpole stage entirely and emerge as tiny, fully formed frogs—an impressive evolutionary shortcut called direct development.

Physically, these frogs vary in size, shape, and color, but many have cryptic coloration that helps them blend into moss, bark, or leaf litter. Some species are brown or green with patterns that mimic leaves or tree bark, which makes them incredibly hard to spot in the wild. This camouflage is essential, as it helps protect them from predators like birds, snakes, and mammals. Some members of Hemiphractidae have expanded toe pads that help them cling to branches and climb trees, and a few species are even considered arboreal, spending most of their lives in the forest canopy. They’re usually nocturnal, becoming active at night to hunt insects and other small invertebrates, which make up the bulk of their diet.