Discovery of Amolops kamal: A New Frog Species from Nagaland

Discovery of Amolops kamal: A New Frog Species from Nagaland

Scientists from the Indian Zoological Survey (ZSI) have discovered a new species of cascade frog named Amolops kamal in the Kiphire district of Nagaland, near the India–Myanmar border. The species belongs to the family Ranidae, commonly known as the “true frogs.” The discovery adds to India's rich biodiversity and highlights the ecological significance of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, one of the world's most species-rich regions.

The genus Amolops, commonly called cascade or torrent frogs, is specially adapted to survive in fast-flowing mountain streams and waterfalls. These frogs possess broad, adhesive toe pads that enable them to cling to rocks in strong currents. Because they inhabit clean freshwater ecosystems and are highly sensitive to environmental changes, they serve as important bio-indicators of ecosystem health.