Thai National Parks

Fejervarya limnocharis is a species of frog found widely distributed in South Asia. It is known under many common names, including Indian cricket frog, Boie's wart frog, rice field frog, and Asian grass frog. Molecular studies of the species complex suggest that there may be multiple species involved.

Description

The following description is from Boulenger:

:Very closely allied to Rana tigrina, from which it differs in its smaller size, half-webbed toes, slight development of the fringe on the fifth toe, and usually in the presence of a small outer metatarsal tubercle. The length and shape of the snout, the size of the inner metatarsal tubercle, and the relative length of the hind limbs and of the fourth toe vary to an extraordinary degree. The tibio-tarsal articulation usually reaches the eye, or between the latter and the end of the snout; but in some specimens (var. brevipalmata, from Pegu and S. India) it reaches considerably beyond the end of the snout, and the foot measures two thirds the distance between the end of the snout and the vent Greenish or olive, with darker spots; a light vertebral line or band frequently present; sometimes a light line along the inner side of the leg; sides of thighs black-marbled; throat of male usually with two large black blotches, sometimes connected and forming a 'M'.

This species measures 2 - 5 cm from snout to vent.

The species forms a complex with several genetic variants that may represent multiple species.

Distribution

A widely distributed species, extending from China and Southern Japan, throughout India, Sri Lanka, and Burma to the Malay Peninsula and Archipelago. In the Himalayas (Sikkim) it occurs up to 7000 m. Stoliczka observed that it usually does not hesitate to take to the sea or brackish water. In Pakistan it occurs in the Indus drainage from the delta north at least to Rawalpindi. It has also been introduced to Guam.

According to the Amphibian Species of the World, records outside Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam are almost certainly representing other species.

Fejervarya limnocharis is one of the few frog species commonly found in oil palm plantations in Malaysia, in addition to Microhyla heymonsi and Hylarana erythraea.

Consumption

Fejervarya limnocharis is commonly sold as food in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia. In Cambodia, it is frequently collected for human consumption, along with Hoplobatrachus rugulosus, Glyphoglossus molossus, Kaloula pulchra, Duttaphrynus melanostictus, and Pelophylax lateralis (with P. lateralis found only north of the Mekong River in localities such as Snuol District, Kratie Province).

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