Endangered Galaxy Frogs Presumed Dead Following Habitat Disturbance in Kerala's Western Ghats
The fingertip-sized Melanobatrachus indicus, commonly known as the galaxy frog and the only species in its family, has been reported missing and is presumed dead following habitat disturbance in Kerala's Western Ghats rainforest. This species, identifiable by distinctive skin spots believed to serve as communication signals rather than poison, was last seen when seven individuals were found by Rajkumar K P in early 2020. However, on a subsequent visit later that year, these frogs had disappeared due to the destruction of their microhabitats.
Photographers investigating the frogs’ habitat have been linked to the decline, with allegations that they overturned logs, trampled vegetation, and relocated frogs for photographs without using gloves, resulting in the death of at least two individuals due to improper handling. Despite efforts by the forest department to restrict photography groups, enforcement challenges persist as some authorities can be influenced to permit photography activities.
Trackers on site have corroborated these events, underscoring the detrimental impact of such disturbance. Conservation experts, including Dr Benjamin Tapley from the Zoological Society of London, have emphasized the urgency of ethical wildlife photography to protect this ancient and irreplaceable species. As of December 2025, the galaxy frogs have not been relocated or found at their natural site, raising concerns about their survival and the long-term effects of human interference on delicate ecosystems.
