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

• 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)

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes

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