Xenophrys apatani

News Excerpt: 

A forest-dwelling horned frog from Northeast India has been described as a distinct species named Xenophrys apatani after the Apatani community of the region in recognition of their ingenuity in the conservation of wild flora and fauna.

Species Characteristics:

  • Belongs to the genus Xenophrys
  • Dark brown in colour featuring small horns.
  • Leaf-litter dwelling frog, often found among tea leaves

Distinction from Vietnamese species:

  • First, reported from Arunachal Pradesh in 2019, it was confused with the Maoson horned frog of Vietnam.
    • Researchers mistakenly overlooked the significant geographical barrier of 1,600 kilometers separating Vietnam and Arunachal Pradesh.
  • The frog species in Arunachal Pradesh exhibited a genetic disparity of 4.4% to 5.5% compared to its counterpart in Vietnam.
    • Geographical distance and a 1% genetic divergence can also warrant further examination to determine if a new species is present.

Habitat and Distribution:

  • Endemic to Arunachal Pradesh, India
  • Currently found in the Tale Wildlife Sanctuary which is part of the Eastern Himalayas and Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspots.
  • Likely has a limited geographical range, though further studies are needed to determine its exact distribution.

Conservation Status:

  • Currently considered safe due to its location within a protected area.
  • Further research is needed to understand its population size and specific habitat requirements

Apatani tribe

  • The Apatani tribe, residing in India's Ziro Valley, stands out for their harmonious relationship with nature. Their way of life exemplifies sustainable practices.
  • Apatani agriculture thrives without machinery or animals. Their wet rice cultivation systems and social forestry methods are extensive and highly productive.
    • This dedication to ecological balance has earned them a UNESCO World Heritage nomination, recognizing the valley's "extremely high productivity" and unique conservation methods.
  • The Apatani culture is vibrant.
    • Dree, their agricultural festival in July, overflows with prayers for bountiful harvests and communal prosperity.
    • It features captivating cultural programs like the Pakhu-Itu, Daminda, and Pree dances. Myoko, another major festival, celebrates friendship for a month, from March to April, showcasing a deeper cultural connection compared to modern Friendship Day.
  • Their society is patrilineal, tracing descent through the father's line. The Apatani are renowned for their artistic talents, evident in intricate handloom designs and exceptional cane and bamboo crafts.
    • Traditional village councils, called bulyañ, play a vital role in maintaining social order.
  • The Ziro Valley serves as a testament to the Apatani's success in creating a living cultural landscape.
    • Their traditional customs, spiritual beliefs, and deep respect for the environment have fostered a remarkable co-existence between humans and nature, even amidst the challenges of a changing world.

 

Tale Wildlife Sanctuary:

Location: Situated in Arunachal Pradesh, 10 km northeast of Hapoli town, Tale Wildlife Sanctuary encompasses 337 sq. km area. It was established in 1995.

Geography: Dramatic landscapes define the sanctuary. Densely forested mountains ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 meters surround the area, with the Subansiri, Sipu, and Pange rivers carving their paths through the valleys. This untouched wilderness boasts pristine climax vegetation, a haven for rare animals.

Wildlife: Tale Sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

  • Predators: Clouded leopard, leopard, jungle cat
  • Mammals: Indian elephant, wild boar, gaur, wild buffalo
  • Other notable creatures: Himalayan black bear, flying squirrel, giant squirrel, Indian pangolin, slow loris, palm civet

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