Pipidae – Tongueless frogs

A fascinating family of aquatic frogs known for their unique adaptations to water-based living. Members of this family, including the well-known African dwarf frog and the Surinam toad, are found in various parts of Africa and South America. What sets these frogs apart is their fully aquatic lifestyle, which means they live almost entirely in water, unlike most frogs that spend time both on land and in water.

One of the most distinctive features of Pipidae frogs is their flat, streamlined bodies. This shape helps them glide through water effortlessly, making them excellent swimmers. They also have powerful, webbed feet, which aid in propulsion. Another interesting physical trait is the absence of tongues and movable eyelids, which is unusual among frogs. Instead of catching prey with a quick flick of the tongue like many other frogs, Pipidae sucks in their food by rapidly opening their mouths to create a vacuum.

The skin of these frogs is another marvel. It plays a crucial role in their respiration, as Pipidae frogs absorb oxygen directly through their skin. This is particularly useful since they spend so much time underwater that it’s harder to come up to the surface to breathe. Therefore, their skin must always stay moist to facilitate this process, which is why you’ll rarely see these frogs venturing far from their aquatic homes.

Reproduction among Pipidae frogs is as intriguing as their physical traits. Many species, such as the Surinam toad, have unique breeding behaviors. The Surinam toad’s female carries eggs on her back, which are embedded into the skin. After the eggs hatch, the young toads emerge directly from the pockets formed on her back, a fascinating and eerie sight. This method of carrying and birthing young helps protect the eggs from predators and ensures a higher survival rate for the offspring.