Galaxy Frog

Galaxy Frog Latest News

According to the study, a group of seven galaxy frogs vanished, all likely to be dead, after multiple photographers descended on their habitat.

About Galaxy Frog

• Galaxy frogs (Melanobatrachus indicus) are one of the rarest and most dazzling amphibians in the world.
• The frog belongs to the family Microhylidae and sub-family Melanobatrachinae.
  • Its dorsal region is warty and speckled with bluish-white spots that resemble stars in the night sky, hence the name ‘Galaxy frog’.
• It has been declared the flagship species of Mathikettan Shola National Park in Idukki , Kerala
• Appearance: It measures just 2 centimetres-3.5 centimetres and has shiny black skin dotted with pale blue speckles, resembling a clear night sky studded with stars.
• Habitat: It nestles under logs and stones on the forest floor at elevations above 900 metres.
• Distribution:  It is endemic to wet evergreen forests of southern Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu states of India.
• Conservation Status: IUCN Red List: Vulnerable 

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Characteristics of Galaxy Frog

• Unlike other frogs, the Galaxy Frog doesn’t have a vocal sac and hence it can’t be identified through its calls.
• The bright-coloured spots are being inferred to aid the frog in communication.
• It is a nocturnal species and extremely sensitive to light. 
• It absorbs water and oxygen through their skin, so moist air is a must for this species. 
• They keep their skin moist by secreting a slimy secretion called mucus to breathe through the skin.
• Threats: Major threats to these creatures are the conversion of forest areas to farm land, firewood collection and landslide and Photo tourism has emerged as a new danger to galaxy frogs.

Source: IE