Galaxy Frogs

• 03 Jan 2026

Source: IE

A study reports that seven rare Galaxy Frogs have disappeared and are presumed dead, with unethical wildlife photography and rising photo tourism in the Western Ghats identified as the key causes.

• About: Galaxy Frog (Melanobatrachus indicus) is a rare, endemic amphibian found only in the Western Ghats of Kerala.
  • Named for its shiny black skin with blue speckles and orange markings, resembling a star-filled galaxy.
• Habitat and Distribution: Found exclusively under rotten logs in cool, moist forest patches, the species is endemic to the wet evergreen forests of the southern Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

  • Galaxy Frogs were declared the flagship species of Mathikettan Shola National Park in Idukki, Kerala. 

    Physical and Behavioural Features: Measuring only 2–3.5 cm, the species is non-vocal, cold-blooded, and relies partly on moist skin for respiration, making it highly sensitive to heat, drying, and disturbance..

• Conservation Status: It is listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Low population density and limited habitat increase extinction risk.

  

Read more: Agroforestry's Impact to Endemic Frogs