The Indian black microhylid frog, also known as the Malabar black narrow-mouthed frog or Melanobatrachus indicus, is a species of frog found in the Western Ghats of India. It is a small, nocturnal amphibian that inhabits the forest floor and feeds on small invertebrates.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Indian black microhylid frog |
| Scientific Name | Melanobatrachus indicus |
| Colour | Black, with a shiny and smooth texture |
| Habitat | Moist deciduous forests, grasslands, and agricultural lands near water bodies |
| Indian states where it’s found | Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala |
| IUCN status | Endangered |
Features
The Indian black microhylid frog is a small, dark-colored amphibian that measures around 20-25 mm in length. It has a pointed snout, a round body, and short legs. The skin of the frog is smooth and shiny, with a black or dark brown coloration that helps it blend in with the forest floor. It has small eyes and a wide mouth with a distinctive narrow opening that gives it its common name.
Habitat and food
The Indian black microhylid frog is found in the moist evergreen forests of the Western Ghats, a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India. It is a nocturnal species that spends most of its time on the forest floor, under leaf litter or in soil. It feeds on small invertebrates, such as ants, beetles, and other insects.
Where is it found in India
The Indian black microhylid frog is endemic to the Western Ghats of India, and is found in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. It is mainly found in the high-altitude regions of the Ghats, at elevations ranging from 800-2000 meters above sea level.
Importance to ecosystem
The Indian black microhylid frog plays an important role in the ecosystem of the Western Ghats, where it is found. As a predator of small invertebrates, it helps to regulate their populations and maintain the balance of the forest floor ecosystem. Additionally, the frog serves as a food source for larger predators, such as snakes, birds, and mammals.
IUCN status
The Indian black microhylid frog is currently listed as Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Its population is declining due to habitat loss and fragmentation caused by deforestation, agriculture, and other human activities. The frog is also threatened by the spread of the chytrid fungus, a pathogen that has caused significant declines in amphibian populations worldwide. Conservation efforts, such as habitat protection and restoration, are needed to ensure the survival of this species and its important role in the ecosystem of the Western Ghats.
