Fynbos Finds: Oxalis, Gladiolus guthrii and Rain Frog

Behold Oaxalis, the clovers. This is a diverse group of important nitrogen fixers and an important early nectar source for insects after fire.

This is gladiolus guthrii, a new post-fire species for the Grootbos species list! It smells like deep red roses.

This strawberry rain frog is so impressive (and tiny) that he gets the parting shot space this week!

Look how he moves with such authority! He was spotted out on the prowl after the first winter rains on Grootbos this week. More often heard than seen, these frogs produce an eerie call on misty mornings in forests and kloofs in montane fynbos.

The grumpy expression on all Rain Frog species is actually an adaptation to their specialised diet of ants, termites, and other small insects. This is a mighty, mini-predator that plays an important role in the fynbos ecosystem. Doesn’t he look fearsome?