- According to a recent study published in Biological Invasions,Indian bullfrog in Andaman islands exhibit their invasive behaviour early in their lives.Even in the developmental stages,the large bullfrog tadpoles eat other native frog tadpoles.
- The bullfrog is found widely in mainland India and protected under Schedule IV of the Indian Wildlife Act 1972.It is steadily occupying the islands’ ecosystem and threatening the local economy.
- The Indian bullfrog (Hoplobatrachus tigerinus) was likely introduced to the Andamans in the early 2000s.By 2009,these frogs were found on several islands and were considered invasive.
- The Indian bullfrog is mainly aquatic,inhabiting mostly freshwater wetlands,both natural and artificial (especially paddy fields).However,it is absent or uncommon in forested areas and coastal regions.
- The increasing population of bullfrogs in Andaman has threatened biodiversity and livelihoods of locals by preying on their fish and chicken.Hence,this is leading to unusual man-frog conflict.
- A species is considered invasive when it reproduces and spreads successfully in a non-native area,where it may have harmful effects on native plants and animals.
