Hemiphractinae

The Hemiphractinae subfamily, commonly known as marsupial frogs, are a group of South American tree frogs belonging to the family Hylidae. A distinctive characteristic of these amphibians is that the females carry their eggs and young in a pouch on their backs.1

While most frogs undergo metamorphosis from an aquatic tadpole to a terrestrial adult, the life histories of frogs can vary significantly, reflecting diverse environmental adaptations. Some species, like those in the genus Hemiphractus, have flattened bodies that help them blend with their forest floor habitat. Other tree frogs have coloration that allows them to camouflage against tree trunks, resembling lichens. These adaptations, along with behavioral strategies, aid frogs in avoiding predators.23