A rare sighting of the Indian Painted Frog (Kaloula pulchra) was reported at the Kawal Tiger Reserve in Telangana, marking a significant deviation from its usual habitats in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and western India. This amphibian species is seldom observed in Telangana, with previous records limited to Adilabad and Medak.
Description and Habitat
The Indian Painted Frog, part of the Microhylidae family, is characterized by its small size, smooth rounded body, and distinctive coloration, often featuring shades of brown with patches of vibrant colors like orange or yellow. These frogs are typically found in diverse habitats such as forests and agricultural lands, often near temporary water bodies such as ponds and ditches.
Behavioral Traits
Primarily nocturnal, these frogs are rarely seen during the day. They feed mainly on insects, capturing them with their sticky tongues. Their ecological role includes insect population control and serving as prey for larger predators, contributing significantly to the local ecosystem.
Previous Sightings
Noteworthy previous sightings include instances in Adilabad and Medak, highlighting the species’ sporadic presence in Telangana. Each sighting underscores the species’ adaptability and the region’s biodiversity richness.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
- Where was the rare Indian Painted Frog recently spotted?
- A) Sri Lanka
- B) Karnataka
- C) Telangana
- D) Assam
- Answer: C) Telangana
- What is the scientific name of the Indian Painted Frog?
- A) Bufo bufo
- B) Kaloula pulchra
- C) Rana tigrina
- D) Duttaphrynus melanostictus
- Answer: B) Kaloula pulchra
- What distinguishes the appearance of the Indian Painted Frog?
- A) Warty skin and large size
- B) Long legs and green coloration
- C) Smooth body and colorful patches
- D) Spiny texture and blue hue
- Answer: C) Smooth body and colorful patches
- Where are Indian Painted Frogs typically found?
- A) Only in dense rainforests
- B) Near coastal areas
- C) Various habitats including forests and agricultural lands
- D) Exclusively in urban environments
- Answer: C) Various habitats including forests and agricultural lands
- What is the primary diet of Indian Painted Frogs?
- A) Small fish
- B) Insects
- C) Algae
- D) Small mammals
- Answer: B) Insects