Cuc Phuong Stream Frog – Amolops cucae – (Bain, Stuart & Orlov, 2006)

Science name: Amolops cucae – (Bain, Stuart & Orlov, 2006)

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Ranidae >> cucae

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description:

Physical Characteristics:
There is limited detailed information available on the specific size and physical characteristics of Amolops cucae. However, it belongs to the Amolops monticola group and shares similar features with related species such as Amolops archotaphus.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Amolops cucae, commonly known as Cuc’s Torrent Frog, is found at an elevation of around 640 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to northern Vietnam, specifically known from the valley of the Nam Tha River and its tributaries in Nam Tha Commune, Van Ban District, Lao Cai Province. It is currently only confirmed at this single location, but the species may also inhabit adjacent areas with similar habitat in high-elevation parts of Yen Bai Province.

Habitat:
Amolops cucae inhabits subtropical/tropical montane moist forests, where it is closely associated with fast-flowing streams and rivers. The species has been observed on riverbanks, rocks in streams, and on branches up to one meter above the ground. The forest at the species’ locality consists of mixed hardwoods, bamboo, and banana trees, and is characterized by a dense canopy. It is also found in permanent streams and rivers within this forest environment.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Amolops cucae is a stream-dwelling frog species that lives in swiftly flowing rivers and streams in forested environments. Males have been observed calling from leaves on small branches, and reproductive behavior, including amplexus, has been observed in September. The species presumably breeds in streams, where larvae likely develop, similar to other species in the Amolops genus.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Amolops cucae is listed as Endangered under criterion B1ab(iii) on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to its limited distribution and habitat degradation. The species was last assessed in 2015.

Population Trend:
The population trend of Amolops cucae is currently decreasing. The species is known from only one location, and its population may be vulnerable to environmental changes.

Threats:

Habitat Loss:
Deforestation for agriculture, logging, and other land-use changes poses a significant threat to Amolops cucae. The degradation of its montane forest habitat and changes in water quality of streams may negatively impact the species.
Limited Distribution:
The species’ restricted range makes it more vulnerable to stochastic events and further habitat degradation.
Conservation Actions:

Habitat Protection:
Efforts to protect the montane evergreen forests and fast-flowing streams where the species lives are critical for its survival.
Further Research:
Surveys to determine the full extent of its distribution and population size, as well as studies of its reproductive biology and ecology, are necessary.