Rare blue frog found by 5th grader goes on display in Japan's Sendai
SENDAI -- A rare blue east Japan tree frog found by a fifth-grade boy is on display at Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium in this city's Miyagino Ward.East Ja
Sendai Umino-Mori Aquarium now hosts a rare blue east Japan tree frog found by a fifth-grade boy, Teppei Kamada. Typically yellow-green, reports of blue tree frogs occur only once or twice annually, according to the aquarium's keeper. Teppei discovered the about 1-centimeter-long amphibian in a vacant lot in Osaki, Miyagi Prefecture, on August 17 while searching for food for his pet praying mantis.
He initially kept the frog at home, but upon realizing it was difficult to care for, he contacted the Miyagi Prefectural Government for assistance, leading to the aquarium taking it in. The frog went on display on August 23, with the keeper expressing hope that it would bring happiness and live a long, healthy life under professional care.
The blue coloration of tree frogs is due to an abnormality in the skin's yellow chromatophores, making them more visible to predators in their natural habitat. In captivity, the frog's color may revert to its typical yellow-green over time. Visitors are encouraged to come see the unique blue tree frog soon.
Written by urgent.news from The Mainichi's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
