Craugastor taurus

The specific name taurus is derived from the Latin word for "bull".[2]

Craugastor taurus is a large, somewhat toad-like frog.[2] Female Craugastor taurus can grow as large as 80 mm (3.1 in) in snout–vent length, whereas males are smaller, up to 42 mm (1.7 in) SVL.[4][5] Dorsum is bumpy and grey or brown in colour, with darker blotches. Arms and legs have dark bars. Feet have extensive webbing.[5] Males have vocal sac and proportionally larger tympanum.[2]

Natural habitats of Craugastor taurus are rocky areas of streams in humid lowland forests at elevations between 25 and 525 m (82 and 1,722 ft) above sea level.[1] It can be found on rocks or in the debris, roots, and vegetation along the stream banks.[5] It is a nocturnal species.[1]

This species was formerly abundant. However, between 2000 and 2008, only one frog has been observed, despite intensive field work.[1] The reasons of the decline are unknown, but chytridiomycosis (or similar disease) is a potential culprit. Outside protected areas, habitat loss remains a threat.[1] Fortunately, in 2014 two populations were reported from Punta Banco (Golfito canton). The species remains absent from the known historic sites. A possible explanation of its persistence in Punta Banco is the drier climate in the area, which is less conducive for outbreaks of chytridiomycosis, compared to the historic range further north.[6]

Map showing Punta Banco, the location of remaining populations of Craugastor taurus