Description and characteristics
Frogs (Rana sp.) are amphibians with a compact body, smooth, moist skin and strong hind legs adapted for jumping. They have large eyes and webbed toes for swimming. Colouring ranges from green to brown.
Habitat and distribution
They inhabit the wetlands of the Danube Delta — ponds, marshes, canals and banks with abundant vegetation. They depend on water for reproduction but also feed on land.
Diet and behaviour
They are carnivorous, feeding on insects, larvae, worms, molluscs and small vertebrates. They are active especially at dusk and night, when they hunt.
Reproduction
Spawning occurs in spring in water, with females laying egg masses (spawn). The larvae become tadpoles, then young frogs, through metamorphosis. The cycle depends on water availability.
Economic and ecological importance
Frogs have an important ecological role, controlling insect populations and serving as food for predators. Locally, they are also used in gastronomy.
Threats and conservation
They are sensitive to wetland loss, pollution and climate change. Protection of wetlands is essential.
Fishing and legal minimum size
Frogs are collected in wetland areas. In the table of minimum legal sizes, frogs (Rana sp.) have a minimum size of 30 g/pc..
Conclusion
Frogs are important amphibians of the wetland ecosystems of the Danube Delta, with a role in insect control and the food web.