Off the west coast of Africa, São Tomé and Príncipe are small volcanic islands whose forests, streams and wetlands support a distinctive set of amphibians. Their isolation and varied microhabitats mean a few species here are found nowhere else, so local lists help track conservation priorities and natural history.
There are 6 Amphibians of Sao Tome and Principe, ranging from Möller’s reed frog to São Tomé reed frog. For each, you’ll find below Scientific name,IUCN status,Endemic (Y/N), and brief notes on distribution and threats — you’ll find below.
How threatened are the islands’ amphibians?
Many species have small ranges and face habitat loss from agriculture, invasive plants and development; some are listed as Vulnerable or Endangered while others are Data Deficient. Check the IUCN status in the table below for species-specific risk and recent assessments.
What does “Endemic (Y/N)” indicate for these frogs?
“Endemic (Y)” means a species occurs only on São Tomé and/or Príncipe, which raises its conservation priority because localized threats can affect the entire global population; “N” means the species also occurs elsewhere.
Amphibians of Sao Tome and Principe
| Common name | Scientific name | IUCN status | Endemic (Y/N) |
|---|---|---|---|
| São Tomé caecilian | Schistometopum thomense | Vulnerable | Y |
| São Tomé giant treefrog | Leptopelis palmatus | Endangered | Y |
| São Tomé reed frog | Hyperolius thomensis | Endangered | Y |
| Möller’s reed frog | Hyperolius molleri | Least Concern | Y |
| Newton’s grass frog | Ptychadena newtoni | Critically Endangered | Y |
| São Tomé puddle frog | Phrynobatrachus leveleve | Least Concern | Y |
Images and Descriptions
São Tomé caecilian
A legless, burrowing caecilian found across moist lowland and montane forests on São Tomé and Príncipe. Secretive in leaf litter and soil, it’s endemic to the islands; habitat loss and introduced predators threaten local populations.
São Tomé giant treefrog
Large, arboreal frog inhabiting primary and secondary forest on São Tomé. Notable for its size and loud call; restricted range and forest clearance make it vulnerable, with small, fragmented populations in higher-elevation forests.
São Tomé reed frog
A small, brightly colored tree frog of São Tomé’s forest edges, plantations and wetlands. Endemic and locally common in suitable habitat but sensitive to deforestation and water pollution; breeds in temporary pools and slow streams.
Möller’s reed frog
A small, adaptable reed frog recorded on São Tomé and possibly Príncipe, found in forests, gardens and disturbed areas. Tolerant of some habitat change, it breeds in standing water; currently relatively secure but habitat degradation may impact populations.
Newton’s grass frog
A ground-dwelling frog restricted to São Tomé’s remaining grasslands and forest clearings. Rare and patchily distributed, it faces habitat loss from agriculture and development and requires targeted monitoring and protection.
São Tomé puddle frog
A small, terrestrial frog occupying streams, puddles and wet forest floor on São Tomé. Endemic and reasonably widespread in suitable habitats; adaptable but vulnerable where forests are cleared or streams become polluted.
