Hyloxalus nexipus from the Cainarachi Valley in central Peru. Photo by Evan Twomey.

Distribution

Ecuador and Peru, most commonly found at mid-elevations (300-800 m). View type locality in Google Maps.

Natural history

This is a strictly riparian species. Males are commonly found among rocks in streams where they can be seen calling and defending their territories vigorously. Males will often climb to the top of rocks and call, other males will then climb up and try to wrestle them off the rocks. Eggs are laid in small clusters on leaves near streams. Tadpoles are transported to flowing water or stream eddies.

Conservation status

This species has a fairly large range and is quite abundant throughout, furthermore population densities are usually very high. To our knowledge this species has not yet been smuggled.

Notes

Close relative to H. azureiventris and H. chlorocraspedus. Hyloxalus nexipus shares more superficial similarities with these two species than most other Hyloxalus, being both aposematic and toxic.