Spiny Spiny Frog – Quasipaa acanthophora – Dubois & Ohler, 2009

Science name: Quasipaa acanthophora – Dubois & Ohler, 2009

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Dicroglossidae >> acanthophora

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: VU (Vunerable)

Description: Physical Characteristics:
Quasipaa acanthophora is a medium to large-sized frog with a stout body. Its dorsal skin is shagreened with glandular warts, which are fine and elongate, and some individuals have keratinized spines on the back and limbs. Males of the species are particularly notable for their large nuptial spines, which are present on the prepollex (thumb pad), fingers, and chest during the breeding season. These spines are significantly larger and more numerous in Q. acanthophora compared to closely related species such as Quasipaa spinosa.

Distribution and habitat: Altitude:
Quasipaa acanthophora is found at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,220 meters above sea level (asl).

Range:
This species is currently known from two locations in northern Vietnam: Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve in Bac Giang Province, and Mau Son in Lang Son Province. It is likely that the species may also inhabit adjacent areas in other provinces such as Hai Duong, Quang Ninh, and southern Guangxi Province, China, as these areas share similar habitat characteristics. Its estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is 7,310 km², and further surveys may confirm its presence in additional locations.

Habitat:
Quasipaa acanthophora is typically associated with forested, mountainous areas, where it inhabits rocky streams in subtropical/tropical moist montane forests. The species is dependent on forested habitats, and human-induced habitat changes are a significant concern. In some regions, forest loss due to settlement expansion and agricultural activities has already impacted its known localities.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
This species is typically found near rocky streams in montane forests, often in areas with dense vegetation. Quasipaa acanthophora is not migratory and likely spends its entire life cycle within its montane forest habitats. Males emit strong, loud calls during the breeding season, likely to attract females, and are known to be congregatory during this time.

Reproduction:
Like other members of the Quasipaa genus, Q. acanthophora likely deposits its eggs in streams, and its larvae have a free-living aquatic stage. However, detailed information about its reproductive biology is still largely undocumented.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Quasipaa acanthophora is listed as “Vulnerable” under the IUCN Red List, based on its limited range, severely fragmented population, and ongoing habitat decline. The species was last assessed in 2015.

Threats:
The primary threat to Q. acanthophora is habitat loss due to human activities. Deforestation, agricultural expansion, and settlement growth are significant concerns in both of its known locations. Forest degradation in Mau Son and Tay Yen Tu Nature Reserve is particularly worrisome as these areas are crucial to the species’ survival.

Conservation Actions:
Although there are no species-specific conservation measures in place for Quasipaa acanthophora, it would benefit from broader forest conservation initiatives in northern Vietnam. Protection of forested areas, particularly around known breeding streams, is vital for the species’ long-term survival. Further surveys are also recommended to better understand its distribution, population trends, and habitat needs.