Delhi University’s recent amphibian survey has unveiled the presence of four new frog species found in the Aravalli biodiversity area, enhancing its total to eight. These new discoveries highlight the importance of conservation efforts, given the role of frogs as environmental indicators.
The Previous Frog Species
Prior to the recent findings, four frog species were known to inhabit the Aravalli biodiversity park. These include the Bullfrog (the largest frog species found in India), the Indian Skipper Frog, the Narrow-mouthed Frog (the smallest land vertebrate from Delhi), and Pierrei’s Wart Frog.
The Indian Skipper Frog is prevalent in South Asia and Southeast Asia, found in countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, and eastern parts of India. Located predominantly at water bodies’ edges, this species is known for its distinctive behaviour of hastily retreating from the shore when disturbed. This trait has earned the species its common name. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the Indian Skipper Frog is currently classified under the ‘Least Concern’ category.
Another previously discovered species in the park, the Pierrei’s Wart Frog, also falls under the ‘Least Concern’ category by the IUCN. This species can be found throughout India and nearby countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, and Bhutan, with paddy fields being their common habitat.
The Newly Found Frog Species
The recent survey conducted by Delhi University has led to the discovery of four additional species enhancing the biodiversity of the Aravalli park. These include Nepal’s Wart Frog, Indian Toad, Indus Valley Toad, and Indian Burrowing Frog.
Nepal’s Wart Frog, a diminutive species native to northern and northeastern regions of India, Bangladesh, and Nepal, has been classified by IUCN under the ‘Least Concern’ category. This highlights the species’ relative abundance and the minimal threats to its survival.
Meanwhile, the Indian Toad has adapted to thrive in a range of habitats, from northern Pakistan to Southeast Asian countries. Despite being able to survive in disturbed lowland habitats – upper beaches, riverbanks, agricultural and urban areas, it’s rarely found in closed forests. The IUCN classifies this adaptable amphibian as ‘Near Threatened’.
A Table of Eight Frog Species
| Frog Species | Status | Region Found |
|---|---|---|
| Bullfrog | Not mentioned | India |
| Indian Skipper Frog | Least Concern | Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Nepal, and Eastern India |
| Narrow-mouthed Frog | Not mentioned | Delhi |
| Pierrei’s Wart Frog | Least Concern | India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan |
| Nepal’s Wart Frog | Least Concern | Northern and Northeastern India, Bangladesh, Nepal |
| Indian Toad | Near Threatened | Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, India, Southeast Asian countries |
| Indus Valley Toad | Not mentioned | Not mentioned |
| Indian Burrowing Frog | Not mentioned | Not mentioned |
Frogs: Indicators of a Healthy Ecosystem
Frogs play a crucial role in indicating the health of an ecosystem. Their presence is often associated with a balanced and thriving environment, further emphasizing the necessity of their conservation and study. The recent discoveries in the Aravalli biodiversity park raise hopes for uncovering more hidden biodiversity in the future.
