Yellow-spotted Litter Frog – Leptobrachium xanthospilum – Lathrop, Murphy, Orlov & Ho, 1998

Science name: Leptobrachium xanthospilum – Lathrop, Murphy, Orlov & Ho, 1998

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

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

Description:

Physical Characteristics: Leptobrachium xanthospilum belongs to the Megophryidae family, known for its cryptic and well-camouflaged frogs. Males of this species typically have a snout-vent length (SVL) ranging between 35 to 45 mm. The body is robust, with a wide, flat head that is slightly broader than it is long. This species has distinct tubercles (small, wart-like projections) on its skin, particularly along the dorsum, giving it a rough texture.

Coloration and Appearance: Leptobrachium xanthospilum has a unique coloration that makes it stand out among other species in the genus. Its dorsal side is predominantly dark brown to gray, often featuring lighter yellow or orange spots scattered across the body, particularly on the back and flanks. These spots give the species its distinctive name, as “xanthospilum” refers to these yellow spots. The ventral (underside) surface is paler, often marbled with darker blotches or spots. The species has strikingly large eyes, and while specific iris color may vary, it is often observed with dark eyes that enhance its cryptic behavior in the forest floor.

Distribution and habitat:

Altitude: Leptobrachium xanthospilum is found at elevations around 1,250 meters above sea level. These altitudes are typical of montane regions, providing the cool, moist conditions that are ideal for amphibians.

Range: This species is native to central Vietnam, with records from the Kon Plong District in Kon Tum Province. Its known range is relatively restricted to this highland area, which is characterized by forested slopes and rich biodiversity. The species is adapted to montane evergreen forests, where it thrives in moist environments with abundant vegetation and water sources. Further research may reveal a wider distribution, but currently, it is known mainly from these specific forested habitats in central Vietnam.

Habitat: Leptobrachium xanthospilum is typically found in montane evergreen forests and wetlands. The forests where it resides are rich in leaf litter and feature dense canopies that help maintain high humidity levels, crucial for amphibians. The species is often observed near streams and ponds, where it relies on permanent water sources for breeding and larval development. It prefers habitats that offer a combination of cover (leaf litter, rocks) and access to freshwater environments like streams, rivers, and ponds.

Behaviour and ecology:

Lifestyle: Leptobrachium xanthospilum is a terrestrial, non-migratory amphibian, living in moist forest environments. It is typically found on the forest floor, where it remains hidden under leaf litter, rocks, or logs. The species is adapted to a sedentary lifestyle, relying on its camouflage to avoid predators. It is usually active at night (nocturnal), foraging for food and seeking mates during the breeding season.

Feeding: The diet of Leptobrachium xanthospilum likely consists of small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and other arthropods found on the forest floor. The species uses its wide mouth and quick tongue to catch prey, feeding in the moist leaf litter or near water sources where invertebrates are abundant.

Reproduction: Breeding typically occurs during the wet season, with reproductive activity peaking around late spring to early summer. Males call to attract females, usually positioning themselves near water sources such as streams or ponds. After successful mating, eggs are laid in water, where the larvae undergo aquatic development. Tadpoles of Leptobrachium xanthospilum are fully aquatic, feeding on algae and detritus in streams until they metamorphose into juvenile frogs and move to land.

Conservation and status:

IUCN Red List Category and Criteria: Leptobrachium xanthospilum has not yet been formally assessed for the IUCN Red List. However, due to its restricted range and specific habitat requirements, the species may face potential threats from habitat destruction and fragmentation.

Threats: The primary threat to Leptobrachium xanthospilum is habitat degradation. Deforestation due to agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development in central Vietnam poses significant risks to the species’ montane forest habitats. As human activities encroach on these areas, the quality and extent of its habitat decrease, threatening the populations of this frog.

Conservation Actions: While no specific conservation measures are currently in place for Leptobrachium xanthospilum, its habitat falls within some protected areas in Vietnam. Continued efforts to protect montane forests in central Vietnam are crucial for the survival of this species. More research is needed to better understand its population size, distribution, and the impacts of habitat loss. Conservation strategies should focus on preserving forested areas and maintaining the integrity of freshwater habitats essential for the species’ reproduction.