KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 9
A study conducted by the Environment Protection and Study Centre (ENPROSC) researchers on 'Promoting Conservation of Mountain Torrent Frogs' has called for an integrated approach to conserve mountain torrent frogs in Nepal, stressing the need for the involvement of local communities, local governments and conservation agencies.
The mountain torrent frog (Amolops mahabharatensis) is a newly described species, first reported in 2020 by herpetologist Janak Khatiwada from Hattibang area of Ichhakamana Rural Municipality in Chitwan district. Despite being newly identified, the species is already listed as 'vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Khatiwada has reported rampant exploitation of the species in its native habitat. According to Pooja Paudel, who led the study on Mountain Torrent frogs, they inhabit streams and nearby forested areas in mountainous regions and are considered important ecological indicators of freshwater health. Frogs also play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by linking upper and lower trophic levels.
She stated that through eco-clubs formed in two schools - Rastriya Secondary School and Janapriya Secondary School - in Ichhakamana, they shared insights of the research withover 90 students from grades VI to IX in both schools.
Paudel highlighted that younger grades were prioritised at Rastriya Secondary School to ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme. "Students produced drawings highlighting amphibian habitats, ecological roles of frogs and threats to their survival," said Sudikshya Dhakal, a research team member. "Students demonstrated a strong understanding of frog ecology, feeding behaviour, food chains and conservation challenges."
They also conducted diurnal and nocturnal visual encounter surveys in Bijok Khola, Tobang Khola and Riddhi Khola of Ichhakamana Rural Municipality. Five amphibian species were recorded: the Mahabharat Torrent Frog (Amolops mahabharatensis), Liebig's Hill Frog (Nanorana liebigii), the Cricket Frog (Minervarya sp.), Zhang's Horned Toad (Xenophrys zhangi) and the Common Asian Toad (Duttaphrynus bengalensis).
In addition, a household survey covering 207 households revealed widespread consumption of Mountain Torrent frogs in the area.
The study team member Ritika Pathak said that nearly 80 per cent of respondents admitted to consuming the species. "Frogs are mainly collected during the monsoon months, particularly in Bhadra as per the lunar calendar (July-August), dried and stored for later use." According to her, most respondents during the study described the frogs as a delicacy. "A few reported their use in traditional medicine," she said.
Another team member, Rona Vaidya, pointed out that even tadpoles are consumed. Habitat degradation, pollution and loss of stream ecosystems were identified as additional threats.
Prabin Lama, secretary of ENPROSC and a team member, noted that many residents became aware of frog conservation efforts through schoolbased programmes.
Paudel also added that several students expressed their willingness to stop consuming amphibians and promote conservation messages within their families.