Sticky Frog

Amphibians ~ Microhylid Frogs ~ Sticky Frog

The sticky frog is a generic name assigned to two species, Kalophrynus pleurostigma and Kalophrynus palmatissimus. Both are tiny frogs with a triangular appearance and variable spotted patterning on the back. Kalophrynus pleurostigma is widely distributed across Southeast Asia while Kalophrynus palmatissimus is endemic to Malaysia. They are very similiar in appearance, the only clear way to distinguish them is to look for a black spot at the groin region, which only occurs in Kalophrynus pleurostigma.

When handled, these frogs will secrete an adhesive gum from their skins, which is quite strong and hard to wash off. Sticky frogs are speciliast ant and termite feeders, often staying close to mounds to feed on them. Their snouts are very sharp and pointed while the outline of the back is clearly distinct from the sides. The back may be spotless or have different arrangements of black spots on a brown, orange or cream background.