Dominican Coqui Frog

Dominican Coqui Frog (Eleutherodactylus coqui) is a small, nocturnal amphibian renowned for its distinctive “ko-kee” call. Thriving in Dominica’s rainforests, this frog is vital to the island’s biodiversity. Found in areas such as the Northern Forest Reserve and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, it contributes significantly to the ecological balance of these regions.

Dominican Coqui Frog: Habitat and Description

The Dominican Coqui Frog typically measures between 3-5 cm in length, with males being smaller than females. It has smooth, moist skin that ranges from gray to brown, often with lighter underbellies. The frog lacks webbing between its toes, making it well-adapted for climbing trees in the mountainous rainforests of Dominica. Its direct-development reproduction method, which skips the tadpole stage, allows eggs to hatch directly into tiny frogs, ensuring survival in terrestrial environments far from water bodies.

Breeding occurs year-round, with males using their loud “ko-kee” calls to attract mates. They often establish territories in moist, hidden areas like leaf litter or tree bark. Females lay eggs in clusters of 20-40, which the male guards vigilantly until they hatch. This protective behavior increases the survival rate of offspring in Dominica’s competitive forest ecosystem.

Diet and Predators

The Dominican Coqui Frog is insectivorous, feeding primarily on ants, beetles, and small invertebrates. By controlling insect populations, it plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of Dominica’s forests. The abundance of insects in areas like the Waitukubuli National Trail and near rivers such as the Pagua River and Melville Hall River provides an ample food supply.

Despite its small size, the Coqui Frog is not without threats. Predators include larger reptiles, such as lizards, and birds like the Jaco Parrot. The frog’s nocturnal habits and camouflage help it avoid predation, but it remains a critical food source within the island’s ecosystem.

Role in Dominica’s Ecology and Tourism

The Dominican Coqui Frog is a keystone species, essential for insect control and as a prey item for higher trophic-level predators. Its presence in volcanic landscapes and rainforests, such as those in the Morne Diablotin National Park, reflects the health of these ecosystems.

Dominica’s eco-tourism heavily features the Coqui Frog. Night hikes along trails like Segment #8 of the Waitukubuli National Trail often highlight the frog’s unique calls. Visitors are introduced to the island’s biodiversity while learning about the frog’s ecological importance.