New frog species discovered

A new species of narrow-mouthed frog has been discovered in India by scientists from the National University of Singapore.

The frog, Microhyla laterite, was found along coastal plains in the subcontinent’s southwest. It measures about 1.6cm and is pale brown with black markings on its back, hands, feet and flanks. The frog’s call is similar to a cricket.

Mr Seshadri, lead author of the study, said: “By naming the frog after its habitat, we hope to draw attention to the endangered rock formations that are of ecological importance. M. laterite can potentially be used as a mascot to change peoples’ perception about laterite areas.”

Laterite rock formations are often sparse of trees and vegetation, and are used as dumping grounds or mined for construction materials such as bricks.

The research team have suggested that the frog be classified as Endangered, as the geographical range of the frog is narrow at 150sq km. Further research will be carried out to determine the evolutionary ecology of the frog.

Mr Seshadri said: “How amphibians persist outside protected areas is not known. This critically endangered frog can be used as a basis for declaring its native laterite habitats as ‘Conservation Reserves’ or ‘Biological Heritage Areas’ under existing legislations in India, allowing us to further our knowledge and understanding of amphibians.”