Venated Gliding Frog

A Marvel of India’s Amphibian Diversity

The Venated Gliding Frog (Rhacophorus malabaricus) is a fascinating and rare amphibian species that highlights the remarkable biodiversity of India’s Western Ghats. Known for its unique ability to glide between trees, this frog is a striking example of nature’s ingenuity and ecological adaptation.

Habitat and Distribution

This critically endangered species is restricted to the Indira Gandhi National Park and its surrounding areas in Tamil Nadu, within the South Western Ghats, one of the world’s most important biodiversity hotspots. It inhabits dense, moist forest ecosystems at an altitude range of 1,000 to 1,300 metres, where high humidity and thick canopy cover provide ideal conditions for its survival.

Unique Adaptations

The Venated Gliding Frog derives its name from the webbed membranes between its fingers and toes, which allow it to glide gracefully from tree to tree. This adaptation helps the frog escape predators, move efficiently through forest canopies, and access food and breeding sites with minimal energy expenditure.

Conservation Status and Threats

Classified as Critically Endangered, the Venated Gliding Frog faces severe threats from habitat loss, primarily due to the conversion of forest land into agricultural areas. Additionally, extraction of timber and firewood by local communities further degrades its fragile habitat, placing the species at high risk of extinction.

Ecological Importance

As an integral part of forest ecosystems, the Venated Gliding Frog plays a vital role in controlling insect populations and maintaining ecological balance. Amphibians are sensitive indicators of environmental health, making the survival of this species crucial for monitoring ecosystem stability in the Western Ghats.

Philatelic Recognition for Conservation Awareness

To mark the Eleventh Conference of the Parties (CoP-11) to the Convention on Biological Diversity, hosted by India in Hyderabad in 2012, the Department of Posts issued a Commemorative Postage Stamp featuring the Venated Gliding Frog. The stamp serves as a visual reminder of India’s responsibility to protect its endemic and endangered wildlife.

Stamps as Messengers of Biodiversity Conservation

Through philately, the story of the Venated Gliding Frog travels far beyond its forest home, spreading awareness about biodiversity conservation and the urgent need to safeguard India’s unique natural heritage.