Omei TREE FROG

Introduction

Omei tree frog (Rhacophorus omeimontis) is a frog species in the family Rhacophorus. “Omei” in its name comes from Mount Emei in Sichuan province where it was first found. “Omei” is used instead of “Emei” probably because “Emei” is pronounced as “Omei” in the local dialect. The frogs can be found in Sichuan, Guizhou, Hunan, and Hubei provinces in China. 

Gallery 01: Omei Tree Frogs

reproduction of OMEI tree froGS

Usually in the evenings after the rain, male frogs make mating calls to attract females. After mating, female Omei tree frogs lay eggs on leaves above the water, covering the eggs with foamy mucus in rolled leaves. Sometimes the frogs also lay eggs in the grass next to the water. After a few days, the tadpoles hatch and fall into the water. They feed on algae, plant debris, and small animals in the water. After 30-60 days, the tadpoles metamorphose into frogs.

Gallery 02: Omei Tree Frog Life Cycle

HABIT of Omei tree frogs

These frogs live in the lush and humid mountainous areas, with altitudes of 700–2000 m. They often inhabit bamboo forests, shrubs and weeds, or in stone seams or caves near the water. They climb to the branches of the trees for food and often feed on insects and other small frogs.

Gallery 03: Natural Environment of Omei Tree Frog

Gallery 04: Omei Tree Frogs in Natural Habitat

CREDITS

Photographer: Jingling Miao
Producer: Yan Liang