Species information
Scientific name: Odorrana ishikawae
Japanese name: オキナワイシカワガエル
Chinese name: 沖繩石川蛙
English name: Okinawa Ishikawa Frog
Origin: Endemic to northern Okinawajima
Ecology and description
Originally, the name “Ishikawa Frog” referred to populations found on both Amami Oshima and Okinawajima. After the Amami population was classified as a separate species (Odorrana splendida), the Japanese name for the Okinawan population was changed to include the locality, becoming “Okinawa ishikawa frog.” Although this species belongs to the genus Odorrana, its appearance is quite distinct from other Odorrana species in the Ryukyu Islands
This species is often described as “the most beautiful frog in Japan” and is the most sought-after target for herping enthusiasts visiting Yambaru. Its breeding season is in winter, when males can be heard calling with a sharp sound near mountain streams.
Tadpoles develop in stream environments. Field guides note that many metamorphose in the next summer, but some may overwinter as tadpoles and only metamorphose the following summer. Therefore, it is possible to observe Ishikawa frog tadpoles even in August.
The Japanese name and scientific name commemorate Professor Chiyomatsu Ishikawa (1860–1935) of the University of Tokyo, who was a pioneer in introducing evolutionary theory to Japan. He is also known for bringing giraffes to Ueno Zoo. He passed away in Taipei during a conference in 1935.
Field photographs taken during our tours, with observation dates
This species is not commonly seen along our usual observation routes. However, during the 【Herping】 tours in 2025, one individual resided in a tree hollow right next to the trail, allowing for frequent sightings. It hasn’t been seen since October 2025, suggesting it may have moved to a new location.
