The mottled yellow-eyed bush frog (Raorchestes flaviocularis) is a tiny species of frog that is endemic to the Western Ghats of India. These frogs belong to the family of Rhacophoridae, commonly known as “bush frogs”. They are small, colorful, and have an important role to play in the ecosystem.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Mottled Yellow-eyed Bush Frog |
| Scientific Name | Raorchestes flaviocularis |
| Colour | Bright yellowish-orange with black and dark green markings |
| Habitat | Moist evergreen forests, shrubs, and grasses near streams or rivers |
| Indian states where it’s found | Endemic to the Western Ghats of India, found in Karnataka and Kerala |
| IUCN status | Endangered |
Features
The mottled yellow-eyed bush frog is a small frog, measuring between 20-25 mm in length. These frogs have a characteristic mottled appearance with a yellow eye. The dorsal side is typically light green with dark spots, and the ventral side is light in color. Their skin is smooth and moist, and they have adhesive toe pads that help them climb trees and other vegetation. Males of this species are slightly smaller than females and have a distinct vocal sac.
Habitat and food
These frogs are arboreal and can be found in a variety of habitats, including moist evergreen forests, bamboo groves, and plantations. They are mostly active at night and feed on a variety of small insects and arthropods such as ants, termites, and flies. Their diet is crucial in regulating insect populations in their habitat.
Where is it found in India
The mottled yellow-eyed bush frog is endemic to the Western Ghats of India, and it can be found in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. They are typically found at elevations ranging from 600-1300 meters above sea level.
Importance to ecosystem
The mottled yellow-eyed bush frog, like other species of frogs, plays a critical role in the ecosystem. They are an important food source for a variety of predators, including snakes, birds, and larger frogs. They also play a vital role in controlling insect populations in their habitat, making them an essential part of the food chain.
IUCN status
The mottled yellow-eyed bush frog is currently listed as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Their population is declining due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and degradation caused by human activities such as deforestation, expansion of agriculture, and urbanization. Climate change is also a growing concern as it affects their habitat and breeding patterns. Conservation efforts such as protecting their habitat and raising awareness about their importance to the ecosystem are essential to ensuring their survival.
In conclusion, the mottled yellow-eyed bush frog may be small, but it plays a vital role in the ecosystem. Conservation efforts must be made to protect them and their habitat to ensure their survival for future generations.
