The Palmated Chorus Frog (Microhyla palmipes) is a small, slender frog belonging to the family Microhylidae. Adults typically measure about 25–30 mm in length. Their body is smooth and light brown or grayish, often with darker patches or a faint “X” or hourglass pattern on the back. The limbs are long and thin, with webbed toes, hence the name “palmipes,” meaning “palm-footed.” The belly is pale, sometimes cream or whitish. The frog’s small size and cryptic coloration help it blend into leaf litter and damp soil on the forest floor.
TADPOLE are small and streamlined, with a dark brown or grayish body and a translucent tail. They develop in small, still pools, such as puddles or temporary forest ponds. The larvae feed on organic debris and microscopic matter in the water before metamorphosing into froglets within a few weeks, depending on environmental conditions.
Aggressive or Danger to Human? This species is not aggressive and harmless to humans. Like other chorus frogs, it relies on camouflage and quick movements to avoid predators rather than confrontation.
Population Status: The Palmated Chorus Frog is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List. It remains relatively widespread in parts of Southeast Asia, including Indonesia and Malaysia. However, local populations may be affected by habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion.
Habitat and Habits: This species inhabits lowland and montane rainforests, often near slow-moving streams, swampy areas, or forest edges. It is primarily nocturnal, emerging at night to feed on small insects and other invertebrates. During the day, it hides under leaf litter or in moist soil. Breeding usually occurs after rain, when males produce soft, high-pitched calls to attract females. The Palmated Chorus Frog is well adapted to both primary and secondary forests, as long as adequate moisture and vegetation cover are present.