The Giant Gladiator Frog

Frogspawn in a pond (Photo by M Hoelting)

The Giant Gladiator Frog (Hypsiboas boans) belongs to the family of tree frogs (Hylidae). This species is widely distributed in northern South America and is even found on the island of Trinidad; it prefers a forest habitat along streams and rivers but can also be found in more open areas.

The Giant Gladiator Frog can grow up to 13 centimetres and has a variable coloration from light to dark brown, sometimes with darker markings. Its eyes are big with a bronzy coloured iris and the lower eye lid has silvery gold reticulations.

The frog’s toes and fingers are well adapted to