Possibly another invasive species that is likely to create considerable problems for Florida’s native species. These invasive animals can be compared with the Cane Toad, plus cats, foxes, rabbits, etc. that either prey upon natives species or out compete them for the available food. As they live in the environment, they conduct their highly destructive practices day and night, 365 days a year and do a better job than even we can do.
>>An invasive frog with sharp claws has been confirmed in parts of southern Florida that could outcompete native species.
Formally known as Tropical clawed frog, the small amphibian has protruding eyes, a flattened body and short talons attached to each limb.
Although a frog with claws may sound startling, scientists at the University of Florida say ‘people need not fret over them,’ as the creature uses them to shred and break apart prey – insects and other aquatic vertebras.
However, the invasive frog may have the potential to spread diseases that could impact Florida’s native amphibians.
Tropical clawed frogs is associated with tropical regions along the rain forest belt in sub-Saharan Africa, but how they arrived in the US remains a mystery.
Christina Romagosa, a University of Florida (UF) research associate professor of wildlife ecology and conservation, said: ‘The Tropical clawed frog invasion represents yet another disturbance to Florida’s aquatic ecosystems, particularly those in southern Florida, which are already vulnerable due to habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species and disease.’
Tropical clawed frogs are a generalist predator, and while it primarily eats aquatic invertebrates — namely insects — it will often eat other frogs’ eggs or tadpoles.
Scientists have shared several concerns now that the clawed frog has made its way into Florida, mainly that it could spread deeper into the state and do so quickly.
If it does multiply, the frogs could deplete food sources of native frogs.
And this species is also a generalist predator, and while it primarily eats aquatic invertebrates it has been found to consume other frogs’ eggs or tadpoles.
https://www.msn.com/en-au/news/us/frogs-with-claws-from-sub-saharan-africa-are-invading-parts-of-florida/ar-BB1fEXQh?ocid=msedgntp