Rainy Toad – Leptobrachella pluvialis – (Ohler, Marquis, Swan & Grosjean, 2000)

Science name: Leptobrachella pluvialis – (Ohler, Marquis, Swan & Grosjean, 2000)

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

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

Description:

Size and Physical Characteristics: Detailed measurements of Leptobrachella pluvialis have not been provided, but like other members of its genus, it is presumed to be a small frog with adaptations for life in leaf litter and montane streams. Morphological and acoustic differences distinguish it from other Leptobrachella species.

Coloration in Life: Individuals have been observed during heavy rainfall, calling from vegetation adjacent to streams, but specific coloration details are not extensively described in the available literature.

Coloration in Preservative: Information on coloration changes after preservation is not currently available for this species.

Distribution and habitat:

Geographic Range: Leptobrachella pluvialis is known only from a single locality at an elevation of 1,850 meters on Fansipan Mountain, Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam. It is suspected that the species’ range extends beyond this locality into adjacent parts of northern Vietnam and southern China, as similar habitats and elevations exist there. The species’ estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is 2,597 km², consisting of three threat-defined locations.

Elevation: The species has only been recorded at 1,850 meters above sea level.

Area: It is found in montane forest habitats, typically in areas adjacent to streams where individuals have been observed calling during heavy rainfall.

Habitat: Leptobrachella pluvialis inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests. The species is associated with streams and riparian zones, where it likely breeds. The quality of its habitat is under threat due to the impacts of tourism, leading to habitat degradation.

Behaviour and ecology:

Reproductive Biology: The reproductive biology of Leptobrachella pluvialis has not been directly observed. However, based on what is known about related species in the genus, it likely breeds in streams, with eggs laid in water and tadpoles developing in a free-swimming larval stage.

Habitat Use: Individuals of this species have been observed calling from branches and leaves during heavy rain, likely indicating a connection to streamside habitats. The species is dependent on high-quality forest and riparian environments, which are increasingly threatened by tourism activities.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Leptobrachella pluvialis is currently listed as Endangered under criteria B1ab(iii), based on its limited range, the small number of known locations, and the continuing decline in habitat quality.

Population Trend: The population of this species is believed to be decreasing, primarily due to habitat degradation caused by tourism.

Threats: The primary threat to Leptobrachella pluvialis is habitat loss and degradation, driven by the impacts of tourism on Fansipan Mountain. The influx of visitors to the area has led to a decline in habitat quality, particularly in the sensitive montane forest ecosystems where this species is found.

Conservation Actions: Conservation efforts for Leptobrachella pluvialis should focus on protecting its montane forest habitat from the negative impacts of tourism. Further surveys are needed to confirm its presence in adjacent regions and to better understand its population dynamics, reproductive biology, and distribution. The preservation of high-altitude forest ecosystems on Fansipan Mountain and surrounding areas is essential to the survival of this species.