Prelims – General issues on Environmental ecology, Bio-diversity and Climate Change.
Mains – GS III | Conservation.
Why in News?
Researchers discovered a rare amphibian, once thought to be extinct has resurfaced in Chile, South America recently.
- Alsodes vittatus is a rare small frog known is endemic to Chile, America.
- First described by - The German-born naturalist Rudolph Amandus Philippi in 1902 (based on specimens collected in 1893).
- Habitat – Limited, in isolated mountain streams of Chile.
- Appearance - Adult males ranged from light brown with yellow and green hues to olive brown, while some juveniles showed darker brown colors.
- Distinctive feature - A yellowish stripe running the length of its back.
- In some individuals, this stripe was prominent, while in others, it was completely absent.
- The Alsodes vittatus populations were found to be genetically close to Alsodes neuquensis, a species previously known only from Argentina.
- Conservation Status - Despite significant threats to the species, researchers have suggested reevaluating the frog's conservation category from Critically Endangered to Endangered.
- Threats - Deforestation, the expansion of livestock grazing, invasive species like introduced trout (which may prey on tadpoles), and the looming dangers of climate change.
Reference
Daily Galaxy | Alsodes Vittatus
