Scientists have discovered that some frogs use an unexpected method to move across water – a rapid series of belly flops that allow them to launch themselves upwards and out of the water. This behavior, known as “porpoising,” is made possible by a unique combination of leg thrusts and body positioning.
Researchers at Virginia Tech studied northern cricket frogs using high-speed video cameras to understand this phenomenon. They found that when these frogs jump onto water, their whole body briefly dips under the surface before launching back out again. This motion creates the illusion of the frog “skittering” across the water’s surface.
The researchers aim to develop a more precise definition of this behavior and explore why it occurs in only certain species, such as the northern cricket frog. They suspect that the unique anatomy and body size may be key factors in allowing these frogs to achieve porpoising.
While scientists are still puzzled by this phenomenon, further research holds promise for shedding light on this fascinating behavior.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/hilarious-fast-moving-belly-flop-lets-frogs-walk-on-water