Ornate Rice Frog

Meet the Microhyla ornata, commonly known as the ornate narrow-mouthed frog. This small amphibian is indigenous to South Asia, inhabiting regions such as Kashmir, Nepal, peninsular India, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. For some time, scientists believed it to be the same species as Microhyla fissipes, but it is now recognized as a distinct species.

These frogs are diminutive and can be identified by the unique arrow-shaped mark on their backs. They exhibit a yellowish hue with dark brown patches. Their heads are small, they lack teeth, and there is minimal webbing between their fingers and toes. In terms of size, males measure approximately 24 mm in length, whereas females are slightly larger, reaching about 28 mm.

Microhyla ornata demonstrates considerable adaptability with regard to habitats. They can be found in grasslands, forests, and even within elephant dung. Though primarily nocturnal, they may occasionally be sighted during the day, particularly in the rainy season, which is also their breeding period. They prefer to breed in ponds and temporary pools.