description Iberian Frog Overview
The Iberian Frog (Rana iberica) is a small brown frog endemic to the northwestern Iberian Peninsula, occurring mainly in Portugal and the adjacent Spanish regions of Galicia, Asturias, León, and Cantabria. It inhabits cold, well-oxygenated mountain streams and brooks in forested or rocky upland areas, typically above 600 metres. Adults grow to about 5 cm in length, with dark spots and a translucent underside. The species is classified as Near Threatened due to habitat loss, pollution, and pressure from introduced aquatic predators.
help Iberian Frog FAQ
Where can the Iberian frog be found?
Rana iberica is endemic to the Iberian Peninsula and is concentrated in Portugal and northwestern Spain. Its Spanish range includes areas such as Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, and León.
Why is the Iberian frog usually found beside mountain streams?
It depends strongly on cool, clean, well-oxygenated running water for breeding and refuge. Shaded forest brooks, springs, and rocky mountain streams provide the moist conditions it needs.
How can an Iberian frog be distinguished from other brown frogs?
It is a relatively small, slender brown frog with a dark mask through the eye and long hind legs. Location beside a cold northwestern Iberian stream is often a stronger identification clue than colour alone.
What threatens the Iberian frog?
Stream pollution, water extraction, habitat alteration, and introduced predators can damage its localized populations. Because Rana iberica is tied to running water, changes to a single catchment can remove an entire breeding site.
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