Hon Ba Sticky Frog – Kalophrynus honbaensis – Vassilieva, Galoyan, Gogoleva & Poyarkov, 2014

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Science name: Kalophrynus honbaensis – Vassilieva, Galoyan, Gogoleva & Poyarkov, 2014

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Microhylidae >> honbaensis

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: VU (Vunerable)

Description: This frog species has not yet been fully described in detail. It was first identified in Hon Ba Nature Reserve, and its name, honbaensis, reflects the location of its discovery. As an endemic species in a restricted area, it highlights the unique biodiversity of Vietnam.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation:
Kalophrynus honbaensis, commonly known as the Hon Ba Spotted Sticky Frog, is found at elevations of 1,500 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to Hon Ba Mountain in Hon Ba Nature Reserve, Cam Lam District, Khanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. Its geographic range is highly restricted, with an estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) of only 14 km². Despite extensive studies in nearby areas, such as Phuoc Binh Nature Reserve and Bi Doup-Nui Ba National Park, K. honbaensis has not been found there, indicating low dispersal and possible endemism to Hon Ba Mountain.

Habitat:
The species inhabits high-altitude wet mixed evergreen forests. No open ponds have been observed in its habitat, leading researchers to speculate that it may be a phytotelm breeder (breeding in water-filled plant structures). Its reproductive biology and general life history remain largely unknown.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
Kalophrynus honbaensis is presumed to follow a life cycle similar to other species within the Kalophrynus genus, with an oviparous reproductive strategy and aquatic, free-living larvae. However, more studies are needed to confirm its breeding habits, particularly if it uses phytotelm structures.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Kalophrynus honbaensis is listed as Vulnerable due to its extremely limited geographic range, confined to a single location. The species was assessed in 2015.

Population Trend:
The population trend is currently unknown, and the number of mature individuals has not been estimated.

Threats:
Although specific threats to this species have not been clearly identified, habitat degradation or changes in forest quality could pose risks, especially given its very limited range.

Conservation Actions:
Further research is required to fully understand the species’ distribution, population size, and life history. Protection of its forest habitat is crucial to ensure its long-term survival, given its restricted range on Hon Ba Mountain.

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