The Malabar gliding frog, also known as the Malabar flying frog, is a unique species of frog found in the Western Ghats of India. It is an arboreal species that can glide through the air using the webbing between its toes. The Malabar gliding frog has gained popularity among nature enthusiasts and researchers due to its unique gliding abilities and interesting characteristics.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Malabar gliding frog |
| Scientific Name | Rhacophorus malabaricus |
| Colour | Brownish-green or bright green with black spots |
| Habitat | Tropical evergreen forests, wetlands and ponds |
| Indian states where it’s found | Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Goa |
| IUCN status | Least Concern (LC) |
Features
The Malabar gliding frog has a distinct appearance with a bright green coloration that fades to a pale yellow on its belly. It has large eyes and a broad head with a snout that extends forward. Its fingers and toes are webbed, which allows it to glide through the air. The Malabar gliding frog can grow up to 8 cm in length.
Habitat and food
The Malabar gliding frog is found in the Western Ghats of India, primarily in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. It prefers to live in moist, evergreen forests and plantations, and can often be found near streams and ponds. The Malabar gliding frog is an insectivore and feeds on a variety of insects and other small invertebrates.
Where is it found in India
The Malabar gliding frog is found in the Western Ghats of India, primarily in the states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Its range extends from the Palakkad Gap in Kerala to the Agasthyamalai Hills in Tamil Nadu.
Importance to ecosystem
The Malabar gliding frog plays an important role in the ecosystem as a predator of insects and other small invertebrates. It is also an indicator species for the health of the forest ecosystem, as it requires a specific habitat to survive. The Malabar gliding frog is also important in terms of cultural significance, as it is featured in local folklore and is revered by some communities in the Western Ghats.
IUCN status
The Malabar gliding frog is listed as a species of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. While its habitat is under threat due to deforestation and fragmentation, the species has a relatively wide distribution and is not currently facing any major threats. However, conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the long-term survival of the Malabar gliding frog and its habitat.
