News: A January 2026 study in Herpetology Notes reported that a population of seven rare Galaxy Frogs in the Western Ghats likely died due to "unethical photo tourism."
Biological & Conservation Facts:
- Appearance: Glossy black with blue-white spots (starry sky) and orange streaks (supernova effect).
- Endemicity: Found only in high-altitude (1000m+) moist evergreen forests of Kerala’s Western Ghats.
- Status: Vulnerable (IUCN) and an EDGE Species (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered). It is the only species in its genus.
- The Threat: Photographers seeking the "perfect shot" overturned logs (their only habitat), used high-intensity flashes (damaging their sensitive skin), and handled them without gloves (causing dehydration/disease).
- Mains Value-Add: Use this as a case study for "The Perils of Social Media-driven Wildlife Tourism" and the need for ethical guidelines in biodiversity hotspots.
IAS-2026 - OPTIONAL / GEOGRAPHY / PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION / SOCIOLOGY / ANTHROPOLOGY / ORIENTATION ON 03 & 04-10-2025 
