Galaxy Frog Threatened by Unethical Wildlife Photography

Barely larger than a fingertip, the galaxy frog is among India’s most visually striking amphibians. Its glossy black skin, speckled with pale blue spots and orange markings, resembles a star-filled night sky. Endemic to the Western Ghats of Kerala, this rare species now faces an unexpected threat — unethical wildlife photography.

About the Galaxy Frog

The galaxy frog (Melanobatrachus indicus) was first described in 1878 but remains poorly studied due to its elusive nature. Measuring just 2 to 3.5 cm, it lives exclusively under rotting logs in moist forest patches of the Western Ghats. Unlike most frogs, it does not produce mating calls. Scientists believe it uses its unique colour patterns for communication, making population and breeding studies difficult. The species is currently listed as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature due to habitat loss and environmental disturbances.

Findings of the Recent Study

A study published in Herpetology Notes in December 2025 reported the disappearance of seven galaxy frogs from a monitored forest patch in Kerala. The research was conducted by fellows of the Zoological Society of London and conservationist P S Easa of Aranyakam Nature Foundation. The frogs were discovered in March 2020, but during the Covid-19 period, large numbers of photographers accessed the site. When researchers returned in 2021 and later visits, the frogs were missing and are now presumed dead.

How Photography Disrupted the Species

According to the study, photographers overturned logs, trampled vegetation, handled frogs with bare hands, and exposed them to high-intensity camera flashes for hours. These actions likely altered the frogs’ microhabitat and interfered with feeding and breeding. Experts note that amphibians rely on moist skin for respiration, making them highly sensitive to heat, dryness, and physical handling. Such disturbances can also increase the risk of pathogen transmission from humans to frogs.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Galaxy frog is endemic to the Western Ghats of Kerala.
• Scientific name: Melanobatrachus indicus.
• Listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN.
• Lives under rotting logs and does not produce mating calls.

Need for Ethical Regulation

The study calls for strict ethical standards in nature and conservation photography. Suggested measures include avoiding handling of animals, limiting flash use, preventing disturbance to microhabitats, and training photographers and guides. Conservationists warn that rare, range-restricted species like the galaxy frog may not survive repeated human interference, even when driven by admiration rather than intent to harm.