Scientists have recently made breakthroughs in understanding the genetics of the Euphlyctis karaavali frog, a species native to the southwestern coast of India. This research holds promise for conserving the species, which is currently listed as “Near Threatened.”
The Euphlyctis karaavali, commonly referred to as an edible frog, was discovered in 2016 in the village of Sanikatta, stretching up to Kerala. Belonging to the Dicroglossidae family, this species is one of the eight identified under the Euphlyctis genus.
Researchers Anoop Vasudevan Sheeja and Sanil George utilized modern techniques and newly developed genetic markers to delve deeper into the frog’s genetic makeup. These new markers, called microsatellites, are highly versatile and were extracted using the advanced Next Generation Sequencing method.
Upon analyzing these markers, the scientists discovered two distinct genetic groups within the Euphlyctis karaavali populations in Kerala. Both of these groups showed a high level of genetic variety, with scores ranging between 0.8 and 1. This indicates a healthy level of genetic diversity, which is beneficial for the survival and adaptability of a species.
Encouragingly, the study did not find any signs of inbreeding, a condition that can lead to a decline in species health and resilience. Moreover, although the populations of this frog in the studied areas are relatively small (fewer than 50 individuals), the genetic richness within these populations is impressively high.
The results present a hopeful future for the Euphlyctis karaavali. The current population in Kerala seems to be stable and even growing. However, the authors emphasize the importance of conservation efforts. With this new knowledge, better plans can be implemented to protect the species from potential genetic decline in the future.
In layman’s terms: A recent study gives us exciting news about a specific frog species in India. Using new genetic tools, scientists have found out that these frogs have a rich genetic makeup that makes them strong and adaptable. Even though there aren’t many of them around, they are thriving. This research can help in making plans to protect them further.
Sheeja, A.V., George, S. Fine scale population genetic structure of Euphlyctis karaavali (Amphibia: Anura) using newly developed microsatellite markers. Biologia (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11756-023-01435-1
