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Source- This post on Malabar Tree Toad has been created based on the article “Endemic Malabar Tree Toad populations may decline 68.7% due to climate change: Study” published in “Down To Earth” on 19 August 2024.
Why in News?
A recent study suggests that climate change could reduce the Malabar Tree Toad’s distribution range by up to 68.7% within India’s protected areas.
About Malabar Tree Toad
| Aspects | Description |
| About | 1) The Malabar Tree Toad is a rare and endangered species of amphibian native to the Western Ghats of India. 2) They are particularly found in the states of Kerala, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. 3) It was first discovered in 1876 and went unseen for over a century. 4) It was rediscovered in 1980 at Silent Valley National Park in Kerala. |
| Habitat | 1) The Malabar Tree Toad lives mainly in trees, especially in the dense canopy of tropical rainforests. 2) It is active at night, feeding on insects and other small creatures, while during the day, it hides under leaves or in tree crevices to stay safe from predators and avoid drying out. |
| Physical Characteristics | 1) The Malabar Tree Toad is a small, dark-colored toad, usually brown or black, with distinctive white or yellowish spots on its back. 2) The skin is rough and covered with small tubercles, giving it a somewhat warty appearance. 3) This toad typically measures around 3 to 4 centimeters in length, making it relatively small compared to other toad species. 4) Its limbs are slender and well-adapted for climbing, with the fingers and toes equipped with pads that help it cling to wet surfaces. |
| Conservation Status | The Malabar Tree Toad is listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List. |
| Threat | Deforestation, habitat loss, and pollution are major threats to this toad. |
| Conservation effort | 1) Conservation efforts are focused on preserving the remaining forest habitats and protecting the water bodies that are essential for the breeding of this species. 2) There is also an increasing interest in studying the ecology and behavior of the Malabar Tree Toad to better understand its needs and improve conservation strategies. |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
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