Aug 14, 2023 at 2:52 PM Update: an hour ago
When night falls and it gets dusk, hundreds of frogs in South America turn blue, green or bright orange. With this they speak a secret language, whereby they may give a different signal with each color. This is evident from research by bioRxiva journal for biological science research.
The ghostly colors may play a role in communicating with other frogs. The researchers examined these fluorescent colors using multiple types of light. 151 frog species were tested and all lit up to some degree. The species came from Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru.
Under blue light, the frogs turned the brightest green or orange. Those colors were most common on the throat, back, and underside of the frogs. Because frogs blow bubbles in their throat pouches, the light pattern becomes even more visible.
With the bright stripes they speak a secret language, the researchers say. Frog eyes appear to be sensitive to green light, which is said to increase frogs’ sexual attraction. The orange light is more for predators. It can serve as camouflage or as a warning signal.
These bright colors are more common in animals. In recent years, researchers have discovered fluorescence in the fur of flying squirrels, in platypus and salamanders, and in certain wasp species.
In new research, scientists look at whether the colors on males influence females’ mating choices. A certain color intensity may be required to elicit sexual behavior.
Photo: BioPhotoNature Receive animal news notifications Stay informed with notifications
2023-08-14 12:52:05
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