Hyloxalus idiomelus, commonly known as Rivero's rocket frog, is a species of frog in the family Dendrobatidae (poison dart frogs). It is endemic to the northern part of the Cordillera Central of northern Peru.
Taxonomy and Description
Originally described by Juan A. Rivero in 1991 under the name Colostethus idiomelus, it was later reclassified into the genus Hyloxalus by Grant and colleagues in 2006. Males measure 20–25 mm (0.79–0.98 in) and females 23–28 mm (0.91–1.10 in) in snout–vent length. The body is robust, with smooth to shagreen skin on the dorsum. Dorsal coloration ranges from dull tan to rich orange-brown to grayish tan, sometimes with a green tint. A pinkish tan, yellowish orange, or cream-colored dorsolateral stripe is present, along with a pinkish tan labial stripe. The undersides of the limbs are yellow, and the iris is bronze in color. The hind feet lack webbing.
Habitat and Distribution
This species inhabits humid tropical montane forests at elevations between 1,620 and 2,840 meters above sea level, typically near seepages and along small streams. It has also been recorded in disturbed forest and cultivated land. The frog is diurnal. Free-swimming tadpoles reach up to 43 mm (1.7 in) in total length, while tadpoles transported on the back of their father measure 10–12 mm (0.39–0.47 in). Tadpoles develop in slow-moving and sometimes marshy streams.
Conservation Status
The IUCN Red List classifies Hyloxalus idiomelus as Data Deficient. Threats include habitat loss associated with agriculture, logging, and urbanization. The fungal disease chytridiomycosis, which has killed other amphibians in the region, is also considered a potential threat. The species has been observed in two protected areas: Alto Mayo Protection Forest and Tilacancha Private Conservation Area.
