A new leaping frog species has been discovered on the edge of the Netravali wildlife sanctuary in Goa by a group of city scientists. The Netravali Leaping Frog (Indirana salelkari) is the 12th species in the Indirana genus. The interesting thing is that the genus is entirely endemic to the Western Ghats. A distinctive feature of these frogs is the presence of small pads on their toes and fingers. The pads help them climb rocks.
This particular species is distinct from the others in the genus on the basis of the mouth structure. Molecular studies and DNA analysis have also established the Netravali Leaping Frog as a distinct species. Last year, another species in the Indirana genus was discovered from Amboli Ghat in Maharashtra.
The endemic group of frogs are facing several threats in the form of illegal trading.
1. There are over 4,700 species of frogs.
2. Frogs are scientifically classified under Phylum Chordata.
3. Croaking is used by male frogs as a way to attract females.
4. Frogs don’t drink water with their mouths; they “drink” by absorbing water through their skin.
5. In Egypt the frog is the symbol of life and fertility, and in Egyptian mythology Heget is a frog-goddess who represents fertility.
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