Why in news
The Purple Frog, which is believed to have co-existed with dinosaurs.
It has similarities to the Sooglossidae family of frogs in Seychelles.
The Anamalai hills is one of its prime habitats in Tamil Nadu.
For years, the amphibian has been drawing the attention of researchers, who are striving to solve the mysteries of its unique year-long subterranean life.
When the State government announced the institution of the Tamil Nadu Endangered Species Conservation Fund (TNESCF) in its 2024 Budget.
A rare frog having a bloated body, pointed snout and stout limbs grabbed space in the posters of the special fund.
The Purple Frog, two species of which are found in unique habitats in Tamil Nadu, are among the many lesser known and endangered species to be covered under the fund.
Scientific Name: Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis
Other Names: Indian Purple Frog, Pignose Frog
Size: Up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) long
Habitat: Western Ghats, India, in loose, damp, aerated soil with good canopy cover, at low elevations below 1,000 meters above sea level
Diet: Small invertebrates, primarily termites
Conservation Status: Endangered
The Purple Frog is a fascinating creature that spends most of its life underground.
It only emerges during the monsoon season to breed.
The frog is listed as Endangered by the IUCN due to habitat loss, deforestation, and consumption by local communities.
Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis and Nasikabatrachus Bhupathi
Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis
Common Name: Purple Frog, Indian Purple Frog, Pignose Frog
Size: Up to 7 cm (2.8 inches) long
Habitat: Western Ghats, India, in loose, damp, aerated soil with good canopy cover, at low elevations below 1,000 meters above sea level
Diet: Small invertebrates, primarily termites
Conservation Status: Endangered
Nasikabatrachus bhupathi
Common Name: Bhupathy's Purple Frog
Size: Up to 5 cm (2 inches) long
Habitat: Western Ghats, India, in loose, damp, aerated soil with good canopy cover, at low elevations below 1,000 meters above sea level
Diet: Small invertebrates, primarily termites
Conservation Status: Critically Endangered
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