Fauna
Amphibian

Hong Kong Cascade Frog

Amolops hongkongensis

Also known as Hong Kong Torrent Frog

Hong Kong cascade frogs cling to slick boulder faces in roaring mountain torrents where suction-cup toe discs prevent them from washing downstream. Females deposit gelatinous egg masses directly onto wet rock surfaces within cascade splash zones, while tadpoles feature specialized abdominal suckers to graze perilously close to white water. Development relies entirely on clean, oxygenated mountain streams, making pristine forest watersheds critical to survival.

AmphibianNocturnal
Hong Kong Cascade Frog reference1 / 4
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EndangeredConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXEndangeredRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyMidges, Beetles, Mayflies
Predators
  • Stream snakes
  • Freshwater crabs
  • Birds
ThreatsStream channelization, water pollution, habitat loss
HabitatsFast-flowing rocky mountain streams, cascades, splash zones
Life span3–6 years
Classification
  1. FamilyRanidae
  2. SpeciesAmolops hongkongensis
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskLow
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is low
Harmless frog; observe without handling to protect delicate amphibian skin.
What to notice
Look for a small, flattened frog with expanded toe discs resting on wet boulders near waterfalls.
Support conservation
Maintain a clean distance, stay on designated stream trails, and never collect wild individuals or disturb egg masses.
Responsible observation
  • Observe at night: Use a warm flashlight beam to spot frogs perched along wet rocks.
  • Watch your step: Avoid stepping on slippery splash-zone rocks where egg clutches are attached.
  • Protect skin: Never handle wild amphibians to prevent spreading pathogens or disrupting skin moisture.
Related species
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