Frogs in the Western Ghats of Karnataka are experiencing a silent monsoon, with reduced activity and calls, signaling environmental stress. Frogs are considered bioindicators because they are among the first species to respond to environmental disturbances. As both predators and prey, they play a vital role in the food chain, and their decline can have cascading effects on the ecosystem.
Impact of Environmental Disturbances
According to Pavan Kumar H, the silent monsoon is attributed to factors such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. These disturbances disrupt breeding cycles and reduce frog populations. The Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot, is home to many endemic frog species that are particularly vulnerable.
Ecological Consequences
The decline in frog numbers affects insect populations and nutrient cycling. Frogs help control pests and serve as food for birds, snakes, and mammals. A silent monsoon indicates a disrupted ecosystem, which could lead to long-term ecological imbalances.
