The Small cricket frog (Minervarya sahyadris) is a small species of frog that belongs to the family Dicroglossidae. These frogs are found in the Western Ghats of India, which is known for its rich biodiversity. Despite their small size, these frogs play an important role in the ecosystem and are considered to be indicators of the health of their habitats.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Small cricket frog |
| Scientific Name | Minervarya sahyadris |
| Colour | Brown or greyish-brown with dark spots or stripes |
| Habitat | Wetlands, rice fields, streams, and ponds |
| Indian States | Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu |
| IUCN Status | Least Concern (LC) |
Features
The Small cricket frog is a small species of frog, with males growing to about 3.5 cm and females growing up to 4.5 cm in length. They have a brownish-green back and a white belly, with a distinct dark stripe running from the nostril to the eye. Their skin is rough and bumpy, with small ridges and bumps covering their body.
Habitat and food
The Small cricket frog is found in a variety of habitats in the Western Ghats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. They are usually found near streams and other bodies of water, where they breed and lay their eggs. Their diet consists of a variety of small invertebrates, including insects and spiders.
Where is it found in India
The Small cricket frog is found in the Western Ghats of India, which is a biodiversity hotspot and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region is known for its high levels of species diversity, and many species of plants and animals are found nowhere else in the world.
Importance to ecosystem
The Small cricket frog is an important species in the ecosystem, as it plays a vital role in controlling the population of insects and other small invertebrates. They are also important indicators of the health of their habitats, as changes in their populations can signal problems with water quality or other environmental factors.
IUCN status
The Small cricket frog is currently listed as a species of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many species in the Western Ghats, they are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, and their populations are declining in some areas. Conservation efforts are needed to protect their habitats and ensure the survival of this important species.
In conclusion, the Small cricket frog is a small but important species in the Western Ghats of India. Their role in controlling insect populations and their status as indicators of habitat health make them an important part of the ecosystem. However, like many species in the region, they are threatened by habitat loss and degradation, and conservation efforts are needed to ensure their survival.
