Brief Description –

Hyperolius kibarae, commonly referred to as the Katanga Reed Frog or Shaba Reed Frog, is a species of frog in the Hyperoliidae family. Endemic to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it is specifically found in the highlands of lower Katanga. The species was first described by Laurent in 1957, with the type locality at Lusinga (1760m) in Upemba National Park, Katanga Province. Hyperolius kibarae has a distinctive appearance, characterized by a broad head with a rounded snout that is longer than the diameter of the eye. It features large finger discs, with the third finger being longer than the snout, and the first phalanx of the fourth toe being free of webbing. Small spines are present on the limbs, and the smooth back displays a green or brown coloration with darker marbling. Faint pale dorsolateral bands are present on the snout, continuing beyond the eye, with a thin dark line connecting the nostril to the eye. The underside is white with fine speckles, and breeding males are distinguished by their yellow throat. Females are slightly larger than males, reaching an average size of 35mm, while males measure 32mm on average. Hyperolius kibarae inhabits montane grasslands at high altitudes, where they are locally abundant in gallery forests along small perennial rivers. However, the species’ advertisement call and biology remain unknown. Consequently, Hyperolius kibarae is currently classified as Data Deficient on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, highlighting the need for further research to fully understand the biology and conservation status of this unique and fascinating species.