Leopard Print Frog

8th July, 2023 Environment

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Context

An unusual type of frog, named Santa Fe frog has been discovered by scientists from Argentina.
It is a rare frog which has a unique leopard print on its skin.

Other Details

This frog was found in caves when it emerged out of them, mainly during night time, in its call for mate.
A Santa Fe frog project is started to protect and secure the future of this amphibian.
The scientists spent hours in finding the eggs and tadpoles of this frog.

Santa Fe frog

It is a species of frog known by the scientific name Leptodactylus laticeps.
It belongs to the family Leptodactylidae.
It is an extremely rare species of frog which is endemic to Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay of South America. (found only in Great Chaco of South America).

Threats

Chopping down of Dry Chaco.
- Dry chaco are the large forest region and dusty plains which are considered world's driest forests.
- These regions are restricted to eastern Bolivia, western Paraguay and northern Argentina.
- The forest regions are sparsely populated and are rich in biodiversity.
Local communities hunt these frogs for food and international pet trade.
Rapid deforestation in the region and subsequent loss of habitat.

Measures for conservation

A project named Santa Fe frog project is being undertaken.
This movement will focus on liaising with local community leaders, farmers, hunters, biologists, conservationists, and educators to protect the species.
Especially for people who hunt this species for food and trade, many Interviews and workshops will be organized for sensitizing them.
Public awareness and engagement campaigns to change the behaviours component of masses and to drive them towards conservation of the species.
Help of local celebrities will be taken to shape right attitude of people.
There are plans for extensive fieldwork for the purpose of detecting the population relicts.
The global conservation status of this species will also be updated which will assist in creating an action plan to preserve and protect this species.