Franky’s narrow-mouthed frog

Franky's narrow-mouthed frog (Mysticellus franki) is a small amphibian found in a limited area of Kerala, India. Measuring less than 3 cm (1.2 inches) long, it has distinctive dark spots on its sides that serve as false eyes to deter predators. These frogs are known for their elusive nature, appearing only for about four days during the breeding season in stagnant pools and puddles within secondary forests.1

The primary threats to Franky's narrow-mouthed frog include habitat loss, landscape modification, climate change, and road development. The family Microhylidae, to which this frog belongs, is widespread and includes over 300 species found across various continents. Many narrow-mouthed toads are small, stocky, and secretive, typically living on land, underground, or in trees.12