The Chile Darwin’s frog is an extremely unusual amphibian that was last seen around 1980, and may already be extinct (1) (2) (3). It is a small species with slender limbs and extensively webbed toes. The presence of a fleshly proboscis that projects pointedly from the tip of the snout is a distinctive feature. The colouration of the back is highly variable, with some specimens exhibiting various shades of brown, while others range from pale to dark green. Underneath, the skin is dotted with black and white splotches (2) (3).
For a long time the Chile Darwin’s frog was believed to be a local variant of a species known as Darwin’s frog (Rhinoderma darwinii), discovered by Charles Darwin during his voyage aboard the Beagle. Although the two are now recognised as separate species, R. rufum is still commonly referred to as the Chile Darwin’s frog (4).
- Male snout-vent length: 31 mm (2)
- Female snout-vent length: 33 mm (2)