Rare Northeast Indian Paddy Frog Spotted in Dampa Tiger Reserve

Aizawl: Scientists just expanded the known range of the Northeast Indian Paddy Frog. A team from Mizoram University and the Mizoram State Cancer Institute found an adult male Micryletta aishani in the Teirei Forest Range of Dampa Tiger Reserve. The team conducted their expedition on March 21, 2025.

DNA tests confirmed the identity of the tiny frog. Genetic data showed the specimen matched previously recorded M. aishani perfectly. The find puts the species 147 km south of its type locality in Assam and 23 km southwest of its last known home in Aizawl. This is the southernmost record for the frog to date.

The team measured the male at 21.6 mm. It was hiding in dry leaf litter. Their study, published in Reptiles and Amphibians, details the first look at the species' diet. Researchers checked the gut contents and discovered undigested exoskeletons of small ants. The team noted: "This marks the first recorded evidence of the diet of Micryletta aishani."

First described in 2019, the frog is still listed as Data Deficient by the IUCN. Researchers Mara Duasa Hlychho, Malsawmdawngliana, Ht. Decemson, Vanlalhruaia, Khawlhring Lalrinzuali, Mathipi Vabeiryureilai, and Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga led the study. They want more surveys in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. They specifically point to southern Bangladesh and Myanmar as prime locations to hunt for the species.