Fynbos Finds: Oxalis, Gladiolus guthrii and Rain Frog

Fynbos Finds: Oxalis, Gladiolus guthrii and Rain Frog

Grootbos Foundation

Fynbos Finds: Oxalis, Gladiolus guthrii and Rain Frog

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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?

Fynbos Finds: Oxalis, Gladiolus guthrii and Rain Frog

Grootbos Foundation

Grootbos Foundation is a registered non-profit organisation in Gansbaai dedicated to conserving the Cape Floral Kingdom while uplifting the communities that call it home. The foundation protects over 22,200 hectares of fynbos and biodiversity across Grootbos Private Nature Reserve and the Walker Bay...

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