Tetraploid Gray Treefrog

Hyla versicolor

Tetraploid Gray Treefrog. Photo: John White

The tetraploid gray treefrog is identical to the diploid gray treefrog, Hyla chrysoscelis, in every way except its call and the number of sets of chromosome it has. While most (but by no means all) animals have 2 sets of chromosomes as adults (diploid), the tetraploid gray treefrog, as its name implies, has a total of 4 sets. Its colour is fairly drab, being usually green, brown or grey, with irregular blotches. This coloration appears to variable, changing with an individual's environment. In what is thought to be an adaptation for confusing predators, the frogs have a bright yellow or orange groin and hindleg area which is normally hidden, but will "flash" whenever the frog leaps away. Gray treefrogs usually forage in trees, hence their name, but will sometimes be found on walls, windows or on the ground, especially if there's a good meal to be had.

Distribution of Tetraploid Gray Treefrog in Canada