[1] Most species occur in the American Cordillera from southern Costa Rica to north-western Argentina.

This genus makes up the bulk of marsupial frog diversity; formerly it was placed in the "Leptodactylidae" assemblage.

Marsupial frogs are so-called because they possess a dorsal brood pouch.

In some species the eggs are fertilized on the female's lower back, and are inserted in her pouch with the aid of the male's toes.

Gastrotheca riobambae (Andean marsupial tree frog) is kept as pet and is used in scientific experiments.