Definition
Kassina cochranae is a species of amphibian in the family Hyperoliidae, commonly referred to as Cochran's running frog.
Overview
- Taxonomy:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Amphibia
- Order: Anura
- Family: Hyperoliidae
- Genus: Kassina
- Species: K. cochranae
- Distribution: The species is endemic to West Africa, with confirmed records from Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Liberia, and Guinea.
- Habitat: It inhabits savanna, forest‐edge environments, and moist grasslands, often near temporary or permanent water bodies used for breeding.
- Behavior: Like other members of the genus Kassina, K. cochranae exhibits a characteristic “running” locomotion, using rapid, alternating limb movements rather than jumping. Breeding typically occurs in the rainy season, with eggs laid in shallow water.
- Conservation status: The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) categorises K. cochranae as “Least Concern,” citing a relatively wide distribution and presumed large population. Nevertheless, habitat alteration due to agriculture and urban development may pose localized threats.
Etymology/Origin
The specific epithet cochranae honors Doris M. Cochran (1898–1968), an American herpetologist noted for her contributions to the taxonomy of African amphibians and reptiles. The species was formally described by Raymond Laurent in 1972.
Characteristics
- Morphology: Adult individuals measure approximately 30–45 mm in snout‑vent length. The dorsal coloration is variable, typically ranging from brown to olive‑green, often bearing irregular darker blotches or spots that provide camouflage among leaf litter. A pale lateral stripe may be present in some specimens.
- Sexual dimorphism: Males may develop slightly larger toe pads and vocal sacs used during calling.
- Call: The male’s advertisement call consists of a series of short, rapid notes, which are audible during the breeding season and serve to attract females and establish territories.
- Reproduction: Eggs are deposited in clusters attached to submerged vegetation. Larval development follows the typical anuran pattern, with tadpoles undergoing metamorphosis over several weeks, depending on environmental conditions.
Related Topics
- Genus Kassina – a group of African “running frogs” notable for their unique locomotion.
- Family Hyperoliidae – a diverse family of tree and reed frogs primarily distributed in sub‑Saharan Africa.
- Doris M. Cochran – pioneering herpetologist whose work contributed to the understanding of African amphibian diversity.
- Amphibian conservation in West Africa – broader context concerning habitat loss, climate change, and disease impacts on regional amphibian populations.