Iridescent Torrent Frog – Amolops iriodes – (Bain & Nguyen, 2004)

Science name: Amolops iriodes – (Bain & Nguyen, 2004)

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

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

Description:

There is limited detailed information available on the specific size and physical characteristics of Amolops iriodes. It belongs to the Amolops monticola group, and shares similarities with Amolops daorum and Amolops changanensis.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Amolops iriodes, commonly known as the Iridescent Torrent Frog, is found at elevations ranging between 1,400 and 1,700 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is known from Mount Tay Con Linh in Cao Bo Commune, Vi Xuyen District, Ha Giang Province, northeastern Vietnam. It is possible that Amolops iriodes may also occur in adjacent areas, including Yunnan Province in China, although further surveys are needed to confirm its presence.

Habitat:
Amolops iriodes inhabits high-elevation subtropical/tropical moist montane forests, closely associated with streams and other freshwater habitats. The frog has been observed on mossy rocks and small branches overhanging streams, indicating its preference for moist, forested environments near water. The montane forests where the species is found are subject to disturbance from population growth and the harvest of forest products.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Amolops iriodes is associated with streams and is often found on wet, mossy rocks or along branches overhanging water. While much of its reproductive biology remains unknown, it is presumed to breed in streams, with larvae developing in the water, as with other species in the Amolops genus.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Amolops iriodes is listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List, as of 2020. The lack of data on its population size, distribution, and ecology has prevented a more precise assessment of its conservation status.

Population Trend:
The population of Amolops iriodes is believed to be decreasing, primarily due to habitat loss and degradation in the montane forests where it resides.

Threats:

Habitat Loss and Degradation:
Deforestation and forest disturbance due to population growth and the extraction of forest products are significant threats to the species. The decline in the quality and extent of its habitat is likely impacting its population.
Conservation Actions:

Further Research:
Surveys in adjacent areas and additional research are needed to determine the species’ full distribution, population trends, and ecological requirements.
Habitat Protection:
Preserving the high-elevation montane forests and freshwater habitats where the species resides is crucial for its conservation.