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The Tree Frogs, family Rhacophoridae,arerepresented by
twogeneraPhilautusandRhacophorus.The tree frogs are separated
fromfrogs of the family Ranidae by the presence of an additional
cartilaginousphalange on their toes. The large discs on the toe and the
slenderform of the body and legs assist the animals in their arboreal
existence.
The GenusPhilautusis represented by two
speciesPhilautusbombayensisnot uncommon at Khandala and
Mahabaleshwar duringthe monsoon. The call of the male of this tiny bush
frog, hardlyexceeding 20 mm. in snout to vent length, is a feature of the
forestsand nearby scrub lands of the Ghats during the
rains.Philautusglandulosushas been recorded from similar surroundings at
Mahabaleshwar.
The genusRhacophorusis represented by a single
speciesRhacophorusleucomystax maculatusfound in the plains as well as
the hills. A slender,medium sized, tree frog, which often takes up residence
in humidsurrounding in houses. In colour grey or yellow above, the
specieshas the ability to change its colour according to its surroundings.
Theeggs are laid above water in a frothy mass which hardens on
contactwith air, and the tadpoles on hatching fall into the water for
furtherdevelopment.
Figure
FAUNA 648