Species information
Scientific name: Odorrana splendida
Japanese name: アマミイシカワガエル
Chinese name: 奄美石川蛙、大島臭蛙
English name: Amami ishikawa frog
Origin: Endemic to Amami Oshima
Ecology and description
The Amami ishikawa’s frog was originally considered conspecific with the Okinawa ishikawa’s frog (Odorrana ishikawae). However, morphological and genetic studies in 2011 confirmed significant genetic differentiation in the Amami Oshima population, leading to its description as a distinct new species. Compared to the Okinawa ishikawa’s frog, the Amami ishikawa’s frog has a smaller head, a more yellowish coloration, and smaller but more densely packed granular protrusions on the skin.
Reference:
Matsui, M. (2011). On the Specific Status of the Amami Population of the Splendid Leaf Frog, Odorrana ishikawae (Anura: Ranidae). Current Herpetology, 30(1), 77-81.
Field photographs taken during our tours, with observation dates
During the 【Other Islands】 tour to Amami Oshima in summer, there is a chance to spot the Amami ishikawa’s frog inside tree hollows, sometimes even during the day. However, during winter observations, they are more difficult to find as the Amami ishikawa’s frog moves to streams for breeding.
