The Kalakad gliding frog, also known as the Western Ghats gliding frog or Rhacophorus calcadensis, is a tree-dwelling amphibian species that belongs to the family Rhacophoridae. It is known for its unique ability to glide through the air using webbed feet and extended limbs, making it an interesting subject of study for researchers.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Kalakad gliding frog |
| Scientific Name | Rhacophorus calcadensis |
| Colour | Bright green upper body with black speckles, pale yellow underbelly |
| Habitat | Trees and shrubs in the evergreen forests of the Western Ghats |
| Indian states where it’s found | Primarily in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve in Tamil Nadu |
| IUCN status | Least Concern |
Features
The Kalakad gliding frog is a relatively small amphibian, measuring about 5 cm in length. It has a bright green upper body with black speckles, while the underbelly is a pale yellow color. One of the distinguishing features of this frog is the presence of large, webbed feet and extended limbs, which allow it to glide effortlessly through the air.
Habitat and Food
The Kalakad gliding frog is found in the evergreen forests of the Western Ghats in India, where it resides in trees and shrubs. It feeds on insects, including ants, beetles, and other small invertebrates found in the forest canopy.
Where is it found in India
The Kalakad gliding frog is endemic to the Western Ghats, a mountain range located along the western coast of India. It is primarily found in the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve, which is situated in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu.
Importance to Ecosystem
The Kalakad gliding frog is an important part of the forest ecosystem, as it plays a crucial role in controlling the population of insects and other invertebrates. Its presence in the forest canopy also contributes to the overall biodiversity of the Western Ghats, which is known for its high levels of species diversity.
IUCN Status
The Kalakad gliding frog is currently listed as a species of “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. While its population size is not well-known, it is thought to be stable due to the relatively large range of the species and its occurrence in protected areas such as the Kalakkad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve. Nonetheless, it is important to continue monitoring the population and habitat of this unique amphibian to ensure its long-term survival.
