Hyperolius thomensis


Hyperolius thomensis is a species of frog in the family Hyperoliidae. It is endemic to the island of São Tomé in São Tomé and Príncipe. Common name Sao Tome giant treefrog has been coined for it. It is the largest Hyperolius species.

Taxonomy and systematics

The species was named by José Vicente Barbosa du Bocage in 1886. It is the type species of the genus Nesionixalus Perret, 1976. Its sister taxon Hyperolius molleri has also been placed in Nesionixalus. Together, these two species form a clade, but its recognition as a genus would render rest of Hyperolius paraphyletic. The two species can form hybrids.

Description

Adult males measure and adult females in snout–vent length. The dorsum is uniform brown or green to blue-green. The venter is marbled in white, orange and black. The ventral surfaces of the limbs are richly marbled in orange and black. Males have their dorsum densely beset with small spines. The pupil is horizontal.

Habitat and conservation

Hyperolius thomensis inhabits primary rainforests at altitudes above. Previous reports from towns are considered questionable. Breeding takes place in tree holes where their tadpoles develop, and the same hole can be utilized by many individuals.
The threats to this species are poorly known, but it is probably impacted by habitat loss caused by agriculture, livestock, wood extraction, and human settlements. Its range includes the Parque Natural Obô de São Tomé.