Beaded sand frog

Introduction: Beaded Sand frog's (Tomopterna tuberculosa) have small round warts that surround blotches on the back (tuberculosa). They are a rare species in Namibia, favouring 'upland savannah areas'. Their call is a continuous rattle, males confounding their difficulty to be observed, by calling from amongst pebbles; excellent camouflage.

Distribution: Epupa Falls, no further south than the settlement of Okangwati.

Diet: Insects and spiders.

Colouration: Variable upperparts ranging from a uniform dark brown or pale with conspicuous near-symmetrical dark markings, edged by a thin white line. Other features include a pale vertebral line and a granular skin ridge around the jaw line. Prominent wart-like projections surround back blotches, resembling a string of beads.

Breeding: There is no information as to the breeding habits of this species.

Maximum size: 45mm.