Happy World Frog Day!
It's no secret that we're big fans of frogs here at Rana Analytics! Frankly, we think frogs are some of the coolest creatures around. And so we'd be remiss if we didn't mention to you that today is World Frog Day.
What is World Frog Day?
March 20th was designated as World Frog Day in 2009. The purpose of the holiday was to be a day of observance of our favorite tailless amphibian with the intention of calling attention to the environmental pressures that are affecting frogs worldwide. More than 170 species of frogs have gone extinct in the last several decades.
Why are frogs so awesome that they get an annual holiday?
Frogs play a crucial role in maintaining the environment. As a mid-tier predator in most ecologies, they provide a food source to larger species, and help keep insect and algae populations in check. Disturbing the frog population has cascading effects on most ecosystems in which they participate.
Some other cool facts about frogs?
There is evidence that frogs have roamed the Earth for more than 200 million years.
There are over 6,000 species of frogs worldwide, reflecting an incredible diversity. and a wide range of adaptations to survive in a number of different environments.
In the 1920s it was discovered that the African Clawed Frog could be used as a rapid human pregnancy test. Using frogs to determine if humans were pregnant would give accurate results back in under 12 hours. Tens of thousands of frogs were used as natural pregnancy tests up until the 1960s.
Frogs eyes have a dual purpose. Aside from having excellent night vision, and great peripheral vision, when a frog swallows, it pulls its eyes down into the roof of its mouth to help push food down its throat. We’re not aware of any other animals that use their eyes as a digestive adaptation.
In conclusion, frogs are adaptable, helpful, and creative! These are all traits we try to embody every day here at Rana Analytics, and that's why frogs are our spirit animal! So please join us in celebrating World Frog Day!
