Sapa Gliding Frog – Gracixalus sapaensis – Matsui, Ohler, Eto & Nguyen, 2017

Science name: Gracixalus sapaensis – Matsui, Ohler, Eto & Nguyen, 2017

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Rhacophoridae >> sapaensis

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

Description:

Gracixalus sapaensis is a small to medium-sized frog with notable features.

Size:
Males: The snout-vent length (SVL) ranges from 20.8 mm to 36.9 mm, with an average size of 30 mm for adult males.
Head: The head is wider than it is long, and the snout is rounded. The eyes are large.
Coloration: The dorsum is yellowish-brown with pale yellow tubercles. The back near the hind limbs has lemon-yellow markings interspersed with dark brown. The posterior thighs are pale gray with yellow spots, while the throat, chest, and belly are pale yellow.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Gracixalus sapaensis, commonly known as the Sapa Bushfrog, is found at elevations between 1,250 and 2,362 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to northwestern Vietnam, specifically within the provinces of Lao Cai and Lai Chau. It is known from fewer than five threat-defined locations, with an estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) of 1,947 km². It may also occur in adjacent areas of southern China, but this has not been confirmed.

Habitat:
Gracixalus sapaensis inhabits subtropical/tropical moist montane forests and shrubland, and has also been observed in agricultural land and near permanent mountain streams. It can be found up to 2 meters from the ground, perched on leaves or branches in the vicinity of mountain streams. Although the species has been observed in disturbed habitats, it likely depends on intact forest for survival, especially for breeding.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
Gracixalus sapaensis is arboreal and typically found in or near montane streams. It is active during the October-November breeding season and is presumed to follow aquatic larval development similar to other congeners.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
The species is listed as Endangered under criterion B1ab(iii) on the IUCN Red List due to its restricted range and the ongoing degradation of its habitat.

Population Trend:
The population trend is currently unknown, but habitat loss and disturbance, especially from agriculture and tourism, are considered major threats.

Threats:

Habitat Loss: Deforestation for agriculture and disturbance from tourism development are significant threats within its range.
Restricted Distribution: The species’ small range makes it vulnerable to environmental changes and human activities.
Conservation Actions:

Protected Areas: The species is likely found within protected areas in northwestern Vietnam, but further conservation actions, including habitat preservation and surveys, are needed.
Further Research: Research is needed to better understand the species’ population size, distribution, and ecological requirements, as well as its response to habitat disturbances.