About Uperodon variegatus (Stoliczka, 1872)
Uperodon variegatus is a small frog species that is often found inside human homes. The finger discs of this species are triangular in shape. The toes have rudimentary webbing, and two metatarsal tubercles are present. When the hind leg is held along the body, the tibio-tarsal joint reaches the shoulder. This species breeds during the rainy season, which runs from April to October, and males produce mating calls throughout this period. Males call at night while floating on water, and they have a single subgular vocal sac. Their call has been transcribed as "ghauy ghauy". The tadpoles of Uperodon variegatus are brown or gray with black spots, and sometimes have a blue spot on each side of the body. Tadpoles are bottom feeders, and complete metamorphosis within one month. For breeding, this species uses water found in dark cavities. Individuals are often found in termite mounds or under stones. Records of this species come mainly from peninsular India, including its dry zone; the species has been recorded as far as Madras and West Bengal. Uperodon variegatus is quite tolerant of water salinity. It has been found co-occurring with large black scorpions of the genus Heterometrus. When disturbed, these frogs crawl over the scorpions; if scorpions walk over the frogs, the frogs flatten their bodies and freeze. This species can burrow in soft soil.
