Amolops archotaphus
Amolops·No conservation status is explicitly mentioned in the text, but threats are detailed.
Amolops archotaphus, also known as the Doi Inthanon rock frog, is a species of frog endemic to Chiang Mai Province in northwestern Thailand, potentially extending into eastern Myanmar. It was formerly considered part of a broader species complex and was only recognized as distinct in 1997. This species is characterized by its habitat near small waterfalls in mountainous regions.
Key Facts
- ›Endemic to Chiang Mai Province, Thailand, with a potential range into eastern Myanmar.
- ›Found near small waterfalls at elevations between 1,100 and 1,800 meters.
- ›Recognized as a distinct species in 1997, previously hidden within a cryptic species complex.
- ›Threatened by habitat destruction, including agriculture, infrastructure development, logging, and water pollution.
- ›The population on Doi Inthanon is protected within the Doi Inthanon National Park.
Doi Inthanon Rock Frog
Montane, Freshwater
Chiang Mai Province, Thailand
Habitat Preference Near Small Waterfalls, High-Altitude Distribution
About Amolops archotaphus
Amolops archotaphus, commonly known as the Doi Inthanon rock frog, is a species of frog belonging to the family Ranidae. It is native to the Chiang Mai Province in northwestern Thailand, with potential extensions into neighboring eastern Myanmar. Its taxonomic status has seen recent clarification, as it was identified as a distinct, cryptic species within the "Odorrana livida complex" in 1997 and later reassigned to the genus Amolops in 2008.
Habitat and Distribution
The Doi Inthanon rock frog is specifically found near small waterfalls at elevations between 1,100 and 1,800 meters (3,600 to 5,900 feet) above sea level. This preference ties it closely to montane freshwater environments.
Conservation Concerns
This species faces significant threats primarily from habitat destruction and degradation. Agricultural expansion, infrastructure development, logging activities, and water pollution all contribute to the decline of its natural environment. Fortunately, the population residing in the Doi Inthanon National Park benefits from protection within this protected area.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amolops archotaphus commonly known as?
Amolops archotaphus is commonly known as the Doi Inthanon rock frog. This name refers to its type locality, the Doi Inthanon mountain.
Where is the Doi Inthanon rock frog found?
The Doi Inthanon rock frog is endemic to Chiang Mai Province in northwestern Thailand. Its range may also extend into adjacent eastern Myanmar.
What kind of habitat does Amolops archotaphus prefer?
This frog is found near small waterfalls. It inhabits elevations ranging from 1,100 to 1,800 meters (3,600 to 5,900 feet) above sea level.
What are the main threats to Amolops archotaphus?
Major threats include habitat destruction and degradation. These are primarily caused by agriculture, infrastructure development, logging, and water pollution.
Is Amolops archotaphus protected?
Yes, the population of Amolops archotaphus found on Doi Inthanon is protected within the Doi Inthanon National Park.
Related Frogs
Amolops formosus
Amolops formosus, also known as the Assam sucker frog, is a species of frog found in the high-gradient streams of northern India, northern Bangladesh, and Nepal. It is characterized by its green dorsum with chocolate-colored blotches and yellow dots, and fully webbed toes with discs, distinguishing it as a specialized inhabitant of fast-flowing water environments.
Amolops gerbillus
Amolops gerbillus, also referred to as the Yembung sucker frog or the gerbil stream frog, is an amphibian species native to South Asia, specifically found in the Himalayan foothills of Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Tibet. This species is distinctive for its amphibious lifestyle, equally dividing its time between basking in the sun and actively hunting and swimming in aquatic environments.
Amolops hongkongensis
The Amolops hongkongensis, commonly known as the Hong Kong cascade frog or Hong Kong torrent frog, is a species of true frog native to southern coastal China, with populations found in Guangdong and historically believed to be endemic to Hong Kong. It is distinct for its unique egg-laying behavior, depositing eggs on rock faces within the splash zones of cascades, and is a protected species in Hong Kong.