Theloderma corticale, commonly known as the Vietnamese mossy frog, is a species of frog belonging to the family Rhacophoridae. Here’s a description of Theloderma corticale and its distribution:

Description of Theloderma corticale:

• Appearance: The Vietnamese mossy frog is known for its unique appearance, characterized by its rough, moss-like skin and cryptic coloration, which helps it blend in seamlessly with its forest habitat. Its body is covered in irregular tubercles and protuberances that resemble patches of moss or lichen. The coloration can vary, but it typically includes shades of green, brown, and gray. This frog has large, bulbous eyes with vertical pupils and a relatively large mouth.
• Size: Adult Vietnamese mossy frogs typically measure around 5 to 7 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) in length, with females being slightly larger than males.
• Behavior: Vietnamese mossy frogs are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. During the day, they remain hidden among rocks, vegetation, or other debris, relying on their camouflage to avoid detection by predators. When threatened, they may remain motionless or attempt to flee.
• Habitat: Theloderma corticale is endemic to the montane forests of northern Vietnam, where it inhabits moist, shady environments near streams, rivers, and waterfalls. These frogs are typically found in areas with dense vegetation, rocks, and leaf litter, which provide ample hiding spots and breeding sites.
• Diet: Vietnamese mossy frogs are insectivores, feeding primarily on a diet of small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, and other arthropods. They use their sticky tongue to capture prey, which they swallow whole.
• Reproduction: Breeding in Vietnamese mossy frogs typically occurs during the wet season, when rainfall is abundant. Males produce distinctive advertisement calls to attract females, and mating usually takes place in or near water. Females lay eggs on vegetation above the water surface, and the tadpoles drop into the water after hatching, where they undergo metamorphosis into froglets.
• Conservation Status: Theloderma corticale is currently classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, like many amphibian species, it may face threats such as habitat loss, pollution, and climate change.

Distribution:

• Theloderma corticale is endemic to the montane forests of northern Vietnam, particularly in the provinces of Lào Cai, Lai Châu, Sơn La, Hòa Bình, and possibly others.
• Within its range, Vietnamese mossy frogs are typically found in cool, humid environments at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,800 meters (about 1,000 to 5,900 feet) above sea level.

Vietnamese mossy frogs are fascinating amphibians known for their remarkable camouflage and unique appearance. Efforts to conserve their forest habitat and protect them from threats are essential for ensuring their continued survival in the wild.