Malabar Gliding Frog

Malabar Gliding Frog Latest News

A rare species known as the Malabar Gliding Frog was sighted at Hirebagewadi near Belagavi recently.

About Malabar Gliding Frog

• The Malabar gliding frog, or Malabar flying frog, is a special type of tree frog.
• Scientific Name: Rhacophorus malabaricus
• Habitat and Distribution:
  • It is endemic to the rainforests of the Western Ghats of India.
  • Typically located on tree leaves near streams or riverbanks, it migrates to overhanging trees above water bodies for breeding, where its tadpoles are released.
• These frogs are famous for their amazing ability to “glide” through the air using the webbing between its toes. 
• They can leap as far as 9 to 12 meters (about 30 to 40 feet). It’s about 115 times their own body length.
• Appearance: 
  • This frog has a body length of about 10 cm (4 in), making it one of the largest moss frogs. Males are smaller than females. 
  • Its back skin is finely granulated, and the color is vivid green without markings.
  • The frog’s belly is pale yellow and feels rougher.
  • The webbing between fingers and toes is large and orange-red.
• Conservation Status:
  • IUCN Red List: Least Concern

Source: TOI

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