The Anaimalai flying frog, also known as R. pseudomalabaricus, is a unique amphibian species found in the Western Ghats of India. This species is known for its ability to glide through the air using the webbing between its toes, making it a fascinating subject of study for researchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
| Characteristics | Description |
| Name | Anaimalai flying frog |
| Scientific Name | Rhacophorus pseudomalabaricus |
| Colour | Bright green dorsally, yellowish-orange ventrally |
| Habitat | Tropical rainforests, bamboo thickets, near water sources |
| Indian states where it’s found | Kerala and Tamil Nadu |
| IUCN status | Least Concern |
Features
The Anaimalai flying frog is a medium-sized species, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length. Its body is flat and triangular in shape, with a broad head and wide mouth. The skin of this species is smooth and green or brown in color, allowing it to blend into its surroundings. However, during breeding season, males develop a bright yellow or orange coloration on their throats.
One of the most distinctive features of the Anaimalai flying frog is its large, webbed feet. These allow the frog to glide through the air, using the skin flaps between its toes to catch the wind and increase its range of movement. This species also has large, sticky pads on the tips of its toes, which help it to climb trees and other vertical surfaces.
Habitat and food
The Anaimalai flying frog is found in the moist, tropical forests of the Western Ghats. It is a nocturnal species, spending the daytime hours hidden away in the foliage of trees and other vegetation. At night, it emerges to hunt for its prey, which consists mainly of insects and other small invertebrates.
Where is it found in India
The Anaimalai flying frog is found in the Anaimalai Hills and surrounding areas in the Western Ghats of India. This region is known for its high levels of biodiversity and is recognized as a hotspot for conservation efforts.
Importance to ecosystem
As with all species in the ecosystem, the Anaimalai flying frog plays an important role in maintaining the delicate balance of its environment. As a predator of insects and other small invertebrates, it helps to control their populations, preventing them from becoming too numerous and damaging the ecosystem.
The Anaimalai flying frog is also an indicator species, meaning that its presence or absence can be used to assess the health of its habitat. By monitoring populations of this species, conservationists can gain a better understanding of the health of the Western Ghats and take action to protect it if necessary.
IUCN status
The Anaimalai flying frog is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many species in the Western Ghats, it faces threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as the impacts of climate change. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts will be necessary to ensure the survival of this unique and important species.
