A Review of the Middle American Tree Frogs of the Genus Ptychohyla

Here's a summary of "A Review of the Middle American Tree Frogs of the Genus Ptychohyla" by William E. Duellman (1963):

Focus: This scientific article published in 1963 by William Duellman focuses on the tree frog genus Ptychohyla, specifically those found in Middle America.

Key Areas of Investigation:

• Taxonomy: Duellman reviews the classification of Ptychohyla species within the Middle American region. This likely involves:
  • Analyzing existing taxonomic literature on Ptychohyla.
  • Examining morphological characteristics (physical features) of various Ptychohyla specimens.
  • Potentially proposing revisions to the classification system based on his analysis.
• Distribution: The study explores the geographic distribution patterns of Ptychohyla species across Middle America. This might include:
  • Distribution maps for individual species.
  • Discussion of factors influencing their distribution, such as habitat types, climate, and geographical barriers.
• Morphological Descriptions: Duellman provides detailed descriptions of the physical features of Ptychohyla species. This likely includes:
  • External morphology (body size, skin texture, color patterns, limb structure)
  • Potentially internal morphology if relevant for distinguishing species.
• Identification Keys: The article might include identification keys to help researchers differentiate between different Ptychohyla species based on their physical characteristics.
• Comparison with Other Groups: Duellman might compare Ptychohyla to other tree frog genera to highlight unique characteristics or evolutionary relationships.

Overall Contribution: This work by Duellman serves as a valuable resource for herpetologists studying Middle American tree frogs. It provides a comprehensive review of the Ptychohyla genus in the region, clarifying their taxonomy, distribution, and physical characteristics. This information is crucial for understanding the diversity of tree frogs in Middle America and for ongoing research in their evolution and ecology.

Additional Notes:

• The specific details covered in the article might vary depending on the available data at the time of publication (1963).
• The article likely includes references to museum collections where Duellman examined Ptychohyla specimens.