Amphibians play a key role in linking terrestrial and aquatic food webs. Studying their stomach contents offers interesting insights into ecological interactions, species health, and resource needs—particularly in habitats affected by human activity. Yet, dietary data remains scarce for many amphibian species.

A recent study published in Acta Herpetologica provides the first detailed analysis of the diet of the paddy frog (Micryletta menglienica). Researchers examined stomach contents from 52 adult frogs collected in Son La Province, northwestern Vietnam. In total, 691 prey items were collected, identified and measured.

The findings revealed a diet dominated by ants and termites, which accounted for 65% of all prey items—indicating a notable degree of dietary specialization. No significant differences were found between males and females in terms of prey type, size, or quantity. However, females exhibited stronger dietary specialization, possibly as a strategy to reduce competition within the species.

Notably, this study also marks the first recorded presence of M. menglienica in Son La Province. This new distribution record underscores the need for more extensive field surveys in northern Vietnam to uncover unknown populations and better define the species’ range. Such baseline data are crucial for assessing conservation status, understanding human impact, and developing effective protection strategies.

Read the full paper to explore the complete findings.

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