Lam Dong Bamboo Sticky Frog – Kalophrynus cryptophonus – Vassilieva, Galoyan, Gogoleva & Poyarkov, 2014

Science name: Kalophrynus cryptophonus – Vassilieva, Galoyan, Gogoleva & Poyarkov, 2014

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

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

Description: The Lam Dong Bamboo Sticky Frog has not been fully described yet, with more research needed to provide detailed information on its physical characteristics. The species was discovered through its distinctive calls before the first individual was captured. The name cryptophonus is derived from the Greek “cryptos,” meaning hidden, and “phonus,” meaning sound, referring to how the species was first heard rather than seen.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation:
Kalophrynus cryptophonus, also known as the Lam Dong Bamboo Sticky Frog, is found at elevations between 247 and 800 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is currently known from the Southern Annamite Mountains, specifically Loc Bao and Cat Tien National Park, in Lam Dong Province, Vietnam. It is endemic to Vietnam, and its estimated extent of occurrence (EOO) is 5,438 km². The limits of its distribution are not fully known, but it may occur in similar habitats in Binh Phuoc, Dak Nong, and Binh Thuan Provinces.

Habitat:
This species is associated with mixed evergreen forests, prominently featuring bamboo. It is a phytotelm breeder, meaning it uses water-filled bamboo stems for breeding. Males are known to call from within these stems, and larvae have been observed inside them. Its habitat is under pressure from deforestation and agricultural expansion.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
This species is likely nocturnal and primarily arboreal, utilizing bamboo stems for breeding. It is known to deposit its eggs inside water-filled bamboo stems where the larvae develop.

Reproduction:
While detailed reproductive biology is not fully known, the species is believed to be a phytotelm breeder. Males call from within bamboo stems, and larvae have been observed developing inside these natural water reservoirs.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Kalophrynus cryptophonus is listed as Endangered due to its limited distribution and the ongoing degradation of its habitat. The species was assessed in 2015.

Population Trend:
The population is thought to be decreasing due to habitat loss.

Threats:

Habitat Loss: Deforestation and agricultural expansion are the main threats to this species’ survival, as they contribute to the degradation of the bamboo forests it relies on for breeding.
Conservation Actions:
Further research is needed to clarify the species’ full distribution, population size, and life history. Conservation of its bamboo forest habitat is crucial for the species’ survival.