Ngoc Linh Litter Frog – Leptobrachium ngoclinhense – (Orlov, 2005)

Science name: Leptobrachium ngoclinhense – (Orlov, 2005)

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Megophryidae >> ngoclinhense

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: EN (Endangered Species)

Description: 

Physical Characteristics:
Leptobrachium ngoclinhense is a species of frog with a robust body and broad head. The males possess reduced cephalic spines during the breeding season, and the species displays aquatic larval development. Tadpoles have been found in rocky streams during the wet season.

It has distinctive skin features, including a smooth dorsum with small granular bumps on the back, particularly near the hind limbs. The belly is more granular, and the skin coloration is primarily dark brown with various markings. The ventral side is gray to dark, with darker spots and blotches.
Coloration and Appearance:
The dorsum of the species is dark gray or brown with Y-shaped brown markings that extend from the eyelids to the back. The limbs are similarly colored, featuring alternating light and dark bands. The eyes are dark, with a noticeable pale stripe across the upper iris.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Leptobrachium ngoclinhense is found at elevations between 1,700 and 2,113 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to Vietnam and is primarily found in the Ngoc Linh Mountain Range within Kon Tum Province, central Vietnam. Its range may extend to similar habitats in adjacent parts of Quang Nam Province.

Habitat:
Leptobrachium ngoclinhense inhabits montane evergreen forests, particularly in areas with high elevation and dense vegetation. The species reproduces in aquatic environments, with tadpoles observed in rocky streams. It is closely associated with moist, forested areas where the quality of the habitat is in decline due to agricultural expansion.

Behaviour and ecology: 

Lifestyle:
Leptobrachium ngoclinhense is presumed to be nocturnal and is mostly active during the rainy season. The species lives in the leaf litter or hides in tree stumps and fallen logs during the day. It primarily feeds on insects and other small invertebrates found in the forest environment.

Reproduction:
Reproduction occurs before March, coinciding with the rainy season. Males have been observed near streams, likely calling from burrows under leaf litter to attract females. Tadpoles have been observed in rocky streams in July, indicating aquatic larval development.

Conservation and status: 

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Leptobrachium ngoclinhense is listed as Endangered (B1ab(iii)) due to its restricted distribution, fragmented population, and ongoing decline in habitat quality.

Population Trend:
The population of this species is decreasing, largely due to the continuous degradation of its montane forest habitat.

Threats:
The primary threat to Leptobrachium ngoclinhense is habitat loss caused by agricultural expansion, deforestation, and habitat fragmentation. These activities reduce the extent and quality of the evergreen forest habitats necessary for its survival and reproduction.

Conservation Actions:
Currently, no specific conservation measures are in place for Leptobrachium ngoclinhense. However, the species resides within protected areas such as Ngoc Linh Mountain and nearby national parks, offering some level of habitat protection. Further research and monitoring of its population and habitat are needed to develop effective conservation strategies.