Limnonectes micrixalus

Limnonectes micrixalus is a species of frog in the family Dicroglossidae, and is endemic to the Philippines.^[3] It occurs in subtropical and tropical regions, primarily inhabiting moist lowland forests and freshwater ecosystems such as streams and rivers.^[4] The species is part of a diverse assemblage of amphibians native to the archipelago, many of which are adapted to highly specialized ecological niches.

Limnonectes micrixalus
A related species, Limnonectes blythii (subadult); no image available for L. micrixalus.
Conservation status
Data Deficient  (IUCN 3.1)[1]
Scientific classification
Domain:	Eukaryota
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Amphibia
Order:	Anura
Family:	Dicroglossidae
Genus:	Limnonectes
Species:	L. micrixalus
Binomial name
Limnonectes micrixalus (Taylor, 1923)[2]

Habitat and Ecology

Commonly found in clean, fast-flowing streams within dense forested landscapes, this amphibian depends on these environments for essential life processes such as foraging, shelter, and reproduction.^[5] Breeding activities likely coincide with the wet season, utilizing shallow, well-oxygenated waters where eggs and aquatic larvae can develop with reduced predation risk.^[5] These ecosystems, characterized by high humidity and rich understory vegetation, support diverse herpetofauna communities. As part of local trophic networks, the frog functions as both predator and prey within local food webs, including birds, reptiles, and small mammals.^[5]

Conservation

Like many forest-dependent amphibians in the Philippines, this frog faces significant conservation challenges. Ongoing pressures from habitat loss due to deforestation, agricultural development, logging, and water pollution have led to the degradation and fragmentation of native habitats.^[6] Such environmental disturbances threaten the survival of individual populations and disrupt the ecological integrity of freshwater systems upon which numerous endemic species rely.

Distribution and Taxonomy

The species is known to occur only on Basilan Island and may potentially be synonymous with L. parvus.^[7][8] At present, the species is classified as Data Deficient (DD) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), indicating that there is insufficient information available to make a direct or indirect assessment of its risk of extinction.

Research Needs

Further research is needed to clarify its taxonomy, distribution, ecology, population size, and reproductive biology.^[9] Field surveys, ecological monitoring, and assessments of potential threats are recommended to better understand its role within local ecosystems and to inform effective, evidence-based management practices. Conservation measures focusing on habitat preservation, freshwater ecosystem management, and broader biodiversity protection remain crucial for ensuring the long-term survival of native amphibian species in the region.