Charles Darwin's Frog | 31 Jul 2024

Source: DTE

Recently scientists have discovered unique tree hole breeding behaviour in Charles Darwin Frog (Minervarya charlesdarwini) species endemic to Andaman Islands.

• Family: It belongs to the Dicroglossidae family, a large group of Asian frogs with over 220 species.
• IUCN Status: The frog is currently listed as ‘vulnerable’ in the IUCN Red list.
• Key Characteristics:
  • They are named in honour of the renowned naturalist Charles Darwin.
  • These frogs lay their terrestrial eggs above water, adopting an upside-down position on tree cavity walls during mating, likely as an adaptation to habitat loss. 
  • Due to fragmented forest habitats, they now use artificial objects like plastic bags as breeding sites. 
  • Male frogs produce three distinct sounds to attract females, with aggressive calls to deter rivals. If unsuccessful, they engage in physical confrontations resembling human fighting techniques.

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