Mertensophryne mocquardi | |
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Scientific classification ![]() | |
Domain: | Eukaryota |
Kingdom: | Animalia |
Phylum: | Chordata |
Class: | Amphibia |
Order: | Anura |
Family: | Bufonidae |
Genus: | Mertensophryne |
Species: | M. mocquardi
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Binomial name | |
Mertensophryne mocquardi (Angel, 1924)
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Synonyms[3] | |
Bufo mocquardi Angel, 1924[2] |
Mertensophryne mocquardi (common names: Mocquards [sic] toad,[1][3] Mocquard's toad[4]) is a species of toad in the family Bufonidae. It is endemic to Kenya and known from Mount Kenya, the Kinangop Plateau, and the highlands surrounding Nairobi.[1][3] The specific name mocquardi refers to François Mocquard, a French herpetologist.[4] It was put in synonymy of Mertensophryne lonnbergi in 1972, but re-validated in 1997.[3][5]
Mertensophryne mocquardi is a relatively small-sized toad.[5] The tympanum is hidden. The canthus rostralis is angular. No bone ridges are present in the head. The parotoid glands are distinct but not always prominent;[2] they are broad and well separated from the eyelids.[5] The hind limbs are relatively short and have well-developed subarticular tubercles. The toes are about one-third webbed. Skin is granulate or tuberculate above and granulate below. The dorsal colouration varies from yellow to black. A light vertebral stripe is often present.[2]
Owing to confusing with Mertensophryne lonnbergi and Mertensophryne nairobiensis, the ecology of this species is poorly known. It is assumed to be a montane forest species.[1] The type series was collected at elevations of 2,400–2,600 m (7,900–8,500 ft) above sea level.[5] Threats to it are not known. It might be present in the Mount Kenya and Aberdares National Parks.[1]