Edible Frog

• Edible Frog Classification and Evolution

The Edible Frog is a species of Frog found across Europe that is also known as the Common Water Frog and the Green Frog. The Edible Frog is a fertile hybrid of two other European Frogs, the Pool Frog and the Marsh Frog, that bred when populations where isolated close to one another during the ice ages. The scientific name of the Edible Frog means both "mud" and "guardian" as they are known to never stray far from water, almost guarding the muddy banks. It was first described in 1758 and has adopted it's name as the "edible" Frog due to the fact that they are now seen as a culinary delicacy in France, particularly the legs.

• Edible Frog Anatomy and Appearance

The Edible Frog is a medium sized Frog growing to around 9cm in length. Females tend to be larger than males and have been known to get up to 12 cm long. Adult Edible Frogs are mainly green in colour with light patches of brown on their backs, yellow eyes and a white underside, covered in a few dark spots. There are number of distinct differences between males and females including the fact that males become much lighter (and greener) during the mating season. Male Edible Frogs also have vocal sacs on the outside of their cheeks and extra skin patches on their feet, both of which are primarily for mating.

• Edible Frog Distribution and Habitat

The Edible Frog is found across central Europe and as far north as Germany and Estonia. Southern populations of the Edible Frog are found from Croatia, through northern Italy and into the south of France. There are also isolated populations in Sweden and Bulgaria which are thought to have migrated from the countries nearby. Edible Frogs spend all of their time either in or very close to water and are most commonly found in calmer parts of rivers and streams, where there is a slow but constant flow of fresh water. They are said to prefer more open areas and can also be commonly spotted around lakes, ponds and marshes.