CURRENT AFFAIRS

Detailed explanation-1: -The discovery of Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis (also called as the Indian Purple frog or the pignose frog) in 2003 sent ripples of excitement through the scientific community. This unique amphibian is found exclusively in one of the hottest of hotspots, the southern Western Ghats of India.

Detailed explanation-2: -Skittering frogs were first discovered in the Deccan plateau and the western ghats over two centuries ago. The latest study, published in journal Zootaxa, involved the researchers adopting an integral taxonomy approach, wherein the morphology, genetic studies and geographical mapping were undertaken.

Detailed explanation-3: -Dubbed Philoria knowlesi, after the Sydney environmentalist Ross Knowles, the frog was discovered thanks to extensive genetic testing. Queensland’s environment department said it was already moving to protect the habitat of the newly identified species.

Detailed explanation-4: -Kozhikode: A team of researchers discovered a new species of freshwater frog from the surroundings of Thattekkad Bird Sanctuary in Ernakulam. The new species has been named Euphlyctis jaladhara. The study describing the species has been published in International Journal Zootaxa, New Zealand.