1. A new species of “music frog,” named Nidirana noadihing, has been recently identified in Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Both male and female frogs of this species exhibit a unique vocalization pattern, making it distinct in the amphibian world.
3. Researchers conducted field surveys in the Changlang and Lohit districts of Arunachal Pradesh between August and September of the preceding year.
Itanagar, Nov 23: Scientists have recently uncovered a new species of “music frog” in Arunachal Pradesh, adding an intriguing addition to the amphibian world.
The unique characteristic of this newly discovered frog, named Nidirana noadihing, is its distinct call pattern, with both males and females exhibiting vocalizations.
The researchers, Bitupan Boruah, V Deepak, and Abhijit Das, conducted field surveys in Changlang and Lohit districts of Arunachal Pradesh between August and September of the previous year.
The Noa-Dihing Music Frog is recognized by its size, growing up to 6cm, and is characterized by a pale cream-coloured line running down its mid-body. The male frogs, with their robust bodies, were found emitting loud calls while nestled within vegetation in shallow water pools. The researchers collected five specimens, consisting of three males and two females, during their fieldwork.
This newfound species has been named after the Noa-Dihing River, close to where the frogs were discovered. The males measure between approximately 1.8 inches and 2.3 inches, while the females range between about 2.4 inches and 2.6 inches.
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Their bodies feature a rounded snout, smooth skin with bony protrusions on their backs, and light brown limbs adorned with dark stripes. Notably, they have a distinct call pattern consisting of two to three notes.
The researchers observed that the discovery of the Noa-Dihing Music Frog is significant as it confirms the presence of the Nidirana genus in India for the first time. Previously, Nidirana species were known in countries such as Japan, Taiwan, China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.
These amphibians exhibit irregular-shaped and sized spots on their eyelids, with dark stripes around their moderately large eyes. The Noa-Dihing Music Frogs’ pupils are gold-rimmed, and their irises are dark brown with a golden spackle.
The study details their distinct coloration, with light brown and pinkish tones on their throat, forelimbs, thighs, and lower legs, while the groin and the outside of their thighs are pale yellow with irregular dark olive patches. Their chest and belly are cream-coloured with a golden tinge.
The researchers emphasize the importance of exploring specialized habitats like marshlands, often overlooked, in the discovery of new species. The findings contribute to the understanding of biodiversity in India and highlight the need to further explore such unique ecosystems.
