Description

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Context

A new species of frog Leptobrachium aryatium has been officially recognized after a 21-year-long scientific investigation.

Initially misidentified as Leptobrachium smithi in 2004.

It has now been confirmed as a distinct species through detailed morphological, genetic and bioacoustic studies.

Location of Discovery

Garbhanga Reserve Forest located on the southwestern fringe of Guwahati.

The region borders Meghalaya and lies adjacent to Deepor Beel, a Ramsar wetland site.

The discovery area is part of the Garbhanga-Rani-Deepar Beel Elephant Corridor, a critical zone for wildlife movement and biodiversity conservation.

About Leptobrachium aryatium

Feature	Description
Naming Inspiration	Named after Arya Vidyapeeth College, Guwahati
Morphology	Stocky body, broad head, short hind limbs
Eye Color	Fiery orange-and-black (strikingly distinct)
Throat Pattern	Reticulated (net-like appearance)
Call Behavior	Rhythmic vocalizations at dusk, identified through bioacoustic study

Significance

The species name aryatium honors Arya Vidyapeeth College recognizing its role in transforming local society from an area associated with liquor brewing to an educational center.

Highlights the interplay between local institutions, community awareness and conservation.

Frogs

Aspect	Details
Taxonomic Classification	Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Chordata Class: Amphibia Order: Anura
Habitat	Mostly found in moist environments including forests, wetlands and freshwater bodies
Distribution	Found worldwide except Antarctica
Physical Features	Smooth or warty skin, long hind legs for jumping, webbed feet, bulging eyes
Breathing	Dual mode: through lungs and skin (cutaneous respiration)
Reproduction	External fertilization, eggs laid in water, undergo metamorphosis
Metamorphosis Stages	Egg → Tadpole → Tadpole with legs → Froglet → Adult Frog
Diet	Carnivorous – eat insects, worms, small invertebrates
Ecological Role	Important in controlling insect population; indicator of ecosystem health
Conservation Status	Many species endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, climate change
Threats	Deforestation, wetland destruction, pesticide use, chytrid fungus
Special Adaptations	Camouflage, sticky tongue, vocal sacs (in males), permeable skin
Interesting Fact	Frogs can absorb water through their skin; many species have unique calls