Madagascar Trip Reveals Rare Harlequin Frog

 

Mantella cowanii, a critically endangered frog from the highlands of Madagascar.

 

 

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Interestingly, some populations of this species occupy deforested, open grassland habitat near streams and boulders.

 

 

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Land ownership issues in the highlands are complex with Mantella 'sites' owned by multiple local communities. Our recent visit to one site suggests that uncontrolled fires represent a threat to the species. Conservation of Mantella cowanii will depend upon working closely with local communities to better regulate land management.