Minute Torrent Frog – Amolops minutus – Orlov & Ho, 2007

Science name: Amolops minutus – Orlov & Ho, 2007

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Amphibia>> Anura >> Ranidae >> minutus

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

Description:

Amolops minutus is a small frog species in the Amolops mantzorum group. Additional morphological details and characteristics are still being updated.

Distribution and habitat:

Elevation:
Amolops minutus, also known as the Small Torrent Frog or Son La Sucker Frog, is found at elevations between 2,050 and 2,400 meters above sea level.

Area:
This species is endemic to northern Vietnam, specifically known from Ho Thau Commune, Tam Duong District in Lai Chau Province, and Ngoc Chien Commune, Muong La District in Son La Province. It has also been reported from Ganiang Township, Yuanyang County, Guanyinshan Provincial Nature Reserve in southern Yunnan, China, at an elevation of 2,495 meters. Further surveys may uncover its presence in adjacent areas with suitable habitat.

Habitat:
Amolops minutus inhabits cascade streams in primary montane mixed forest. It is found on rocky outcrops and vegetation along stream banks. This species is closely associated with pristine, undisturbed habitats, and has not been observed in disturbed areas. Its breeding is presumed to take place in streams, as with other species in the Amolops genus.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle:
This species is closely associated with streams in high-altitude montane forests. Males have been heard calling in April and May, suggesting that breeding likely occurs during this period. However, much of its reproductive biology remains unknown.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Amolops minutus is listed as Endangered under criterion B1ab(iii) due to its restricted distribution and threats to its habitat.

Population Trend:
The population of Amolops minutus is decreasing, primarily due to habitat degradation caused by fire, agriculture, and tourism.

Threats:

Habitat Loss:
The species is threatened by deforestation and habitat degradation, particularly due to agricultural expansion and tourism activities, which affect the quality of its montane forest habitat.
Conservation Actions:

Further Research:
Surveys are needed to confirm its full distribution range, particularly in adjacent areas in Vietnam and southern China.
Habitat Protection:
Conservation of the pristine montane forest habitats is crucial for the survival of this species.