Painted rice frog – Microhyla picta – Schenkel, 1901

Science name: Microhyla picta – Schenkel, 1901

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

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

Description:

Physical Characteristics:
As Microhyla picta has been poorly studied, detailed physical descriptions are limited. However, like other members of the Microhyla genus, it is likely a small to medium-sized frog. The genus Microhyla typically features species with a broad, flattened body, a triangular head, and relatively smooth skin, although some may have slightly tubercular skin. Its fingers and toes are expected to lack large disks, but may possess small dilations, and webbing is likely present on the toes, as seen in other species of Microhyla.

Coloration:
No precise details exist regarding the coloration of Microhyla picta. However, given the genus’ common characteristics, it may display patterns of brown, gray, or olive tones with various darker markings, particularly on the dorsal surface. Other Microhyla species often exhibit dorsal patterns, such as butterfly-shaped markings, and similar traits could be expected in M. picta. The ventral side is likely lighter, possibly cream or pale gray, with some darker speckling around the throat or chin.

Distribution and habitat:

Altitude:
Microhyla picta is thought to inhabit lowland and subtropical/tropical moist lowland forests and wetlands. While specific altitudinal data is lacking for this species, it is likely that it exists in habitats closer to sea level or at moderate elevations, given the typical environments of other Microhyla species in Vietnam.

Range:
Microhyla picta is a species with a very limited and poorly understood range. It has been reported from southern Vietnam, with historical records from Vung Tau Province and central Vietnam. However, there is only one confirmed specimen of this species, and its precise distribution remains unclear. The type specimen was described from somewhere in southern Vietnam (Schenkel, 1901), and later reports by Bourret (1942) mentioned occurrences in Vung Tau and central Vietnam, but these locations are considered uncertain due to a lack of corroborating evidence.

Despite the scant records, it is possible that Microhyla picta inhabits other parts of southern Vietnam with similar habitats. The estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is unknown due to the lack of sufficient data, but it is expected that its range may be fragmented, and the species could be restricted to only a few locations, particularly within forested areas in southern and central Vietnam.

Habitat:
Microhyla picta is presumed to inhabit forested areas and wetlands, similar to other species in the genus Microhyla. It likely thrives in lowland subtropical and tropical moist forests and freshwater marshes or pools. These habitats provide the still waters necessary for breeding, as most Microhyla species are known to reproduce in such environments. The forested areas where M. picta may reside have been subject to extensive deforestation and conversion to agricultural land, which could significantly impact its population and distribution. However, specific information about the species’ preferred habitats or breeding behavior remains unknown.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Microhyla picta is likely a terrestrial species, as is common for members of the Microhyla genus. It probably spends much of its time on the forest floor or in leaf litter, particularly near water sources such as small ponds or marshes. Like many other Microhyla species, M. picta may exhibit nocturnal activity, foraging and calling at night, although no specific behavioral studies have been conducted on this species.

Reproduction:
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Microhyla picta. However, based on the general breeding behaviors of other Microhyla species, it is assumed that M. picta breeds in still or slow-moving water, such as temporary rain pools or marshes. Eggs are likely deposited in the water, and the larvae would undergo an aquatic developmental stage before metamorphosing into juvenile frogs. The species’ reproductive biology, including the timing of breeding and specific breeding sites, has not been documented.

Feeding:
Like other species in the genus, Microhyla picta is presumed to be insectivorous, feeding on small invertebrates such as ants, flies, and other arthropods. It likely forages within the leaf litter and low vegetation of forested areas, though no specific studies on its diet have been conducted.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Microhyla picta is currently listed as “Data Deficient” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. This classification reflects the lack of adequate data regarding its population size, distribution, and ecology. The most recent assessment was conducted in November 2015. This Data Deficient status highlights the urgent need for field surveys and research to clarify the species’ conservation status.

Threats:
The primary threat facing Microhyla picta is habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion, particularly in southern Vietnam. The transformation of forests into farmland, as well as infrastructure development, poses significant risks to its presumed habitats. Since the species’ distribution is likely highly fragmented, it may be especially vulnerable to these environmental changes. Additionally, the conversion of wetlands, which are critical for breeding, could further threaten the species’ survival.

Conservation Actions:
Currently, there are no targeted conservation actions in place for Microhyla picta. However, the species may occur in protected areas in Vietnam, such as national parks or nature reserves, which could provide some degree of habitat protection. Further research is necessary to determine its range, population trends, and habitat needs. Detailed studies on its ecology and breeding behavior are also crucial for developing effective conservation strategies. Protecting the remaining forest and wetland habitats in southern Vietnam would be a critical step in safeguarding the species.