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A collection of uncommon ‘galaxy’ frogs has vanished and is suspected to have been harmed following reports that photographers damaged their environments.

The small, star-dotted Melanobatrachus indicus is the sole member of its family and resides beneath logs in the Keralan rainforest in the south.India. 

They are known as “galaxy frogs” because of the vibrant markings on their skin.

A zoological researcher named Rajkumar K P discovered seven of the rare species in 2020, yet was unable to visit them because of the Covid pandemic.

But as per a report by the Zoological Society ofLondon, when he came back, the frogs were gone and it seemed that their home had been destroyed.

According to Mr. Rajkumar’s report, the large, attractive fallen tree was entirely shattered and out of place.

It also mentioned that the nearby plants had been crushed and that the frogs could not be found anywhere.

Mr. Rajkumar initially believed that mongooses were responsible for harming the frogs’ environment, but later found out that various nature photographers had been spotted at the location.

As per Mr Rajkumar’s tracking systems, the photographers had been flipping logs in their quest to find the species, which is categorized as endangered.

When they located them, they would take photographs of the amphibians without using gloves, despite their fragile nature.

Mr. Rajkumar was informed that at least two frogs had perished following their capture by photographers.

The scientist states that he has not been able to locate any living galaxy frogs after spending months searching and has criticized the photographers for disrupting their natural environments.

“Forest department officials attempt to stop such groups from arriving. However, they involve higher authorities—politicians, high court judges, or similar individuals—to permit them to take pictures,” he stated.

I fell in love with these frogs after seeing them. They appear jet black in color, but when exposed to light, you can see all the stars—like galaxies on their bodies. It’s truly magical.

Talking about nature photography, Mr Rajkumar mentioned: ‘When done properly, photography can serve as a significant tool for conservationists to enhance their knowledge regarding aspects like animal distribution or behavior…However, careless photography can transform this benefit into a risk.’

Not larger than 3cm, the galaxy frog is exclusively present in certain forests within the southern Western Ghats of India.

Their living environments have been endangered recently due to farming growth and travel activities.

Recognized as a species facing critical endangerment, they have been chosen as the emblematic species of Mathikettan Shola National Park to promote awareness regarding their conservation.

Conservation initiatives involve 10-15 year management strategies with an emphasis on safeguarding their environments.

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