Amphibian diversity from Sangli District (MS, India)

Abstract

Amphibians, particularly frogs and toads created the first true footprints on the earth at least 190 million years ago. Sangli district contains lakes perennial streams, grass lands, hill slopes and paddy fields. This high diversity of habitats responsible for amphibian diversity. For the present study the survey of amphibians was carried out during rainy season (late May to late October). The presence of various species of frogs were noted on the bases of actual sighting, presence of egg clusters (for same species), and on their calls. The famous Chandoli National Park lies in Shirale taluka of  Sangli district and spread on around 317.97 Sq. km. with the 32 villages. It crossed the boundaries of the district like Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli and Ratnagiri. The specimens were studied along the streams and through patches of forest during day light and early night hours. Working with frogs brings a strange but intense awareness about the present and distinct past. Amphibians from family bufonidae, ranidae, microhylidae, rhacophoridae and caeciliidae were reported.