Amphibians and snails are favourites in the Titicaca Water Frog’s diet. Their tongue can extend but is relatively short, therefore they rely on underwater feeding than catching prey that live on land. With the lowest metabolism of any frog species, they are perfectly adapted to hunt and feed in their cold, high-altitude home.

Titicaca Water Frogs breathe through their skin, so water pollution is a serious threat. Wastewater and other pollutants flowing into the lake have caused mass die-offs linked to low oxygen levels. These frogs also face over-harvesting for consumption as traditional food, and trout introduced to their natural habitats may compete with them for food and prey on their young.

Titicaca Water Frogs are easily recognised for a distinct feature—their large, loose skin folds. They breathe through skin and make use of its increased surface area for efficient gas exchange. When oxygen level is low, they stretch their limbs and bob up and down, absorbing more oxygen as they expose their skins to more water.