Bamboo Moss Frog – Theloderma laeve – (Smith, 1924)

Science name: Theloderma laeve – (Smith, 1924)

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Rhacophoridae >> laeve

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

Description:

Physical Characteristics:
This frog species has smooth dorsal skin, distinguishing it from many related species with rough or tuberculated skin. Its small size and unique features, including the absence of vomerine teeth, help in identifying it within the Theloderma genus. The body is dorsoventrally compressed, and the snout is relatively short. The dorsal coloration is generally pale, with various small dark brown spots and blotches forming a pattern, often in the shape of an “X” on the back.

The iris is typically bicolored, with a distinct light and dark pattern that contrasts with the lighter body coloration. The lack of webbing between fingers and moderately developed webbing between toes further characterizes the species. These features, combined with its smooth dorsal surface, make Theloderma laeve easily recognizable among similar species in its genus.

Distribution and habitat:

Altitude:
Theloderma laeve, commonly known as the Smooth Bug-eyed Frog, is distributed across central and southern Vietnam at elevations ranging from 125 to 1,400 meters above sea level (asl).

Range:
This species is native to Vietnam, with populations in Thua Thien Hue, Lam Dong, and other provinces. Its presence is also likely in Cambodia (Mondolkiri Province) and the Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Xe Kong Province), where similar habitats exist. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) for Theloderma laeve is approximately 141,736 km², suggesting a wide but potentially fragmented distribution across these regions.

Habitat:
Theloderma laeve is associated with tropical forests and has been found in bamboo bushes and rattan palms within its range. It occupies both lowland moist forests and montane forests, and its habitat may include wetlands, particularly streams and creeks where its tadpoles develop. The species has been observed in disturbed areas, indicating some resilience to habitat modification, although its forest-dependency remains uncertain.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Theloderma laeve is primarily arboreal, commonly seen perched on vegetation, particularly in areas with bamboo and rattan. Its breeding habits involve aquatic larval development, with reproduction likely occurring in May. During this time, up to seventeen males have been recorded calling per 100 meters in suitable habitats, indicating a congregatory behavior around breeding sites.

Reproduction:
Little is known about the reproductive behavior of Theloderma laeve, but its tadpoles have been observed in streams, where they likely develop into metamorphs. The species appears to rely on aquatic habitats for the development of its larvae, and further studies are needed to understand its specific breeding sites and the duration of its reproductive cycle.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Theloderma laeve is currently listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List, indicating that while it faces some threats, such as habitat loss, its overall population is not considered to be at immediate risk of extinction. The species was last assessed in 2020, and its population trend is currently decreasing, primarily due to habitat degradation.

Threats:
The primary threat to Theloderma laeve is habitat loss from deforestation, agricultural expansion, and human-induced changes to its natural environment. Although the species has shown some resilience to disturbed habitats, continued forest degradation could have long-term impacts on its populations.

Conservation Actions:
Conservation measures for Theloderma laeve to be implemented include habitat protection and management, particularly in areas of known occurrence. Protected areas such as national parks and nature reserves in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos are crucial for safeguarding the species’ habitat. Further research is needed to determine the full extent of its range, population dynamics, and habitat requirements, which can inform conservation efforts.

Use and Trade:
Currently, there is no known significant use or trade involving Theloderma laeve. However, like many amphibian species, it could be vulnerable to the pet trade or other forms of exploitation in the future, particularly due to its unique appearance and smooth skin. Monitoring and regulation of trade are recommended as part of broader conservation strategies.