Hemiphractus proboscideus, or the Sumaco horned treefrog, is a species of frog in the family Hemiphractidae. It is found in the upper Amazon basin in extreme southwestern Colombia (Amazonas and Caquetá Departments), Ecuador, and northern Peru.[1] [2] [3]
Males measure 43mm50mm and females 52mm67mm in snout–vent length. The head is triangular in dorsal view. Snout is elongated to a proboscis, and there is a large conical and several small tubercles on the eyes. At night, the body is yellowish with brown diagonal or transverse bars and with crossbars in the extremities; the belly is grayish-cream to white. By day, the back is brown with darker brown markings; the ventral surface is brown to reddish brown with orange or yellow spots on the belly, and yellow or white spots on the gular region. Tongue is orange.[3]
Reproduction seems to occur throughout year as juveniles have been encountered during all months. Development is direct, and the female carries her eggs on her back.[3]
Hemiphractus proboscideus is a predatory species that eats other frogs. At night, they are typically found sitting on low vegetation.[3] When disturbed, the frog will open its mouth to show its bright-coloured tongue. They can deliver a strong bite.[3]
Its natural habitats are moist tropical forest at elevations of 100m–1200mm (300feet–3,900feetm) asl. It is a rare species. No major threats have been identified, but it has declined in Ecuador for unknown reasons. Its range includes several protected areas.