Uperodon variegatus (Stoliczka, 1872)

Species Introduction

Uperodon variegatus is a small frog species that is often found inside human homes.

Finger Disc Morphology

The finger discs of this species are triangular in shape.

Toe and Foot Morphology

The toes have rudimentary webbing, and two metatarsal tubercles are present.

Hind Limb Proportion

When the hind leg is held along the body, the tibio-tarsal joint reaches the shoulder.

Breeding Season and Male Calling Period

This species breeds during the rainy season, which runs from April to October, and males produce mating calls throughout this period.

Male Calling Behavior and Vocal Sac Structure

Males call at night while floating on water, and they have a single subgular vocal sac.

Call Characteristics

Their call has been transcribed as "ghauy ghauy".

Tadpole Coloration

The tadpoles of Uperodon variegatus are brown or gray with black spots, and sometimes have a blue spot on each side of the body.

Tadpole Feeding and Development

Tadpoles are bottom feeders, and complete metamorphosis within one month.

Breeding Habitat

For breeding, this species uses water found in dark cavities.

Non-breeding Microhabitat

Individuals are often found in termite mounds or under stones.

Geographic Distribution

Records of this species come mainly from peninsular India, including its dry zone; the species has been recorded as far as Madras and West Bengal.

Salinity Tolerance

Uperodon variegatus is quite tolerant of water salinity.

Co-occurring Species

It has been found co-occurring with large black scorpions of the genus Heterometrus.

Interspecies Interaction Behavior

When disturbed, these frogs crawl over the scorpions; if scorpions walk over the frogs, the frogs flatten their bodies and freeze.

Burrowing Ability

This species can burrow in soft soil.