Malabar Tree Toad

August 17, 2024

Climate change could shrink the Malabar Tree Toad’s (MTT) distribution in protected areas by up to 68.7% between 2061 and 2080, based on high emissions scenarios.

Low Emissions Scenario:

If emissions are low, the species’ distribution could increase by up to 111.3% in protected areas.

About Malabar Tree Toad

Malabar Tree Toad

Scientific name: Pedostibes tuberculosus
- It is also known as the Warty Asian Tree Toad.
Habitat: MTT is native to India’s Western Ghats
- Unlike most toads, it lives in trees.
Unique Feature: It is the only species in the genus Pedostibes, making it a unique type of Asian tree toad.
Discovery: First found in 1876, not seen again for over 100 years, and rediscovered in 1980.
Breeding
- It breeds in water pools created by monsoon rains.
- Impact of Climate: Changes in precipitation and moisture levels affect MTT breeding and habitat availability.
Conservation Status
- IUCN status: Endangered (EN)

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Importance to Ecosystem

Predator Role: The Malabar tree toad controls insect and spider populations by feeding on them, helping maintain ecological balance.
Indicator Species: Its presence indicates a healthy forest ecosystem.
Nutrient Recycling: Contributes to the recycling of nutrients within the ecosystem.
Soil Aeration: Helps in aerating the soil, promoting overall soil hea

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