Pyxicephalus Differences

[tgampper]

Hi African Bullfrog Fans:

I am sorry that the ABF ID Guide is taking longer than expected. I was contacted last night by a scientist who really knows the genus quite well. He is willing to address some issues between P. adspersus and P. edulis with me. If you have a question or two, please PM me ASAP. Thanks!

[onedge30]

Hey Terry, I saw this pop up and had to take notice.

My overall question is still finding a definitive specimen photo and description for each species of this genus. Or even a few (2-3) photos that are of each species.

We can then always have photos that can be classified as 'likely' to be that species, but of a variation.

I think there is still the question as to the photos of what is known as the dwarf African bullfrog, here in the US, possibly being some cross.

What are your thoughts? Who are you working with in Africa?(you can pm if you like)

[tgampper]

Hi Jeff:

I don't think we can get a definitive picture of the two species. There are many variations among populations. There are other factors to consider:

1) are we seeing hybrids?
2) some scientists are convinced that P. edulis is just a subspecies of P. adspersus
3) some scientists believe P. aspersus and P. edulis are one in the same species
4) the markings of juvenile P. adspersus and P. edulis are very much alike

It seems that there are differences between adults:

1) adspersus is larger, more widespread geographically, has a uniform green color and lack a pattern
2) edulis is smaller, more colorful and has a complex pattern, lives in lowland areas

P. a. angusticeps is highly unlikely to be found in the commercial market since they are only found in a small area of northern Mozambique.

The mystery rolls on, but I hope to get some expert answers.

[onedge30]

Terry,

Let me check with another source and see if they could help. There is a brand new book coming out on Pyxicephalus in early 2011.

[sgreer14]

I have been researching all of this in my spare time. im also confused look at this frog and tell me what you think. he is growing fatter and looks like the edulis. but hes only about 8 months old. any idea on what he could be?

[willtilian]

edulis

[onedge30]

edulis