Definition
Zhangixalus duboisi is a species of amphibian in the family Rhacophoridae, commonly referred to as Dubois’ treefrog. It is a nocturnal, arboreal frog native to parts of Southeast Asia.
Overview
The species was first described by René Léon Bourret in 1937 under the name Rhacophorus duboisi. Subsequent taxonomic revisions transferred it to the genus Zhangixalus, which comprises large, tree‑dwelling frogs often called “flying frogs” due to their extensive webbing that enables gliding. Z. duboisi inhabits subtropical and tropical moist forest ecosystems, frequently occupying low to mid‑elevation forest canopies and breeding in temporary or permanent water bodies such as ponds and slow‑moving streams. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed the species as Data Deficient because of limited information on its population trends and exact distribution.
Etymology / Origin
The specific epithet duboisi honors French herpetologist Jean Dubois, who made significant contributions to the study of Asian amphibians. The genus name Zhangixalus combines the surname “Zhang” (in recognition of Chinese herpetologist Zhang) with the suffix “‑ixalus,” derived from the earlier genus Polypedates and Rhacophorus to denote tree‑frogs.
Characteristics
- Size: Adult males typically range from 45–55 mm in snout‑vent length (SVL), while females are slightly larger, reaching up to 60 mm SVL.
- Morphology: The dorsum is generally olive‑green to brown with irregular dark blotches that provide camouflage among foliage. The skin is smooth, and the limbs are long with expanded toe pads that facilitate adhesion to vertical surfaces. The webbing between the fingers and toes is well developed, especially on the hind limbs, aiding in gliding.
- Reproduction: Breeding occurs during the rainy season. Males call from vegetation near water, emitting a series of high‑pitched notes. Females lay eggs in foam nests attached to vegetation overhanging water; upon hatching, tadpoles drop into the aquatic environment.
- Diet: Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small arthropods such as flies, beetles, and moths captured on the forest floor or in the canopy.
Related Topics
- Genus Zhangixalus – a group of Asian treefrogs notable for their gliding ability and diverse reproductive strategies.
- Family Rhacophoridae – commonly known as shrub frogs or flying frogs, a family characterized by arboreal habits and extensive toe webbing.
- Conservation of Southeast Asian Amphibians – many species face threats from habitat loss, pollution, and disease, highlighting the need for further research on taxa like Z. duboisi.
Note: While the above information reflects current scientific consensus, some details—particularly regarding precise distribution, population size, and conservation status—remain insufficiently documented; therefore, “Accurate information is not confirmed” for those aspects.