Malagasy Rainbow Frog

Scaphiophryne gottlebei is endemic to the Isalo Massif in south-central Madagascar. It occupies a very restricted landscape of sandstone canyons, rocky walls and seasonal streams.

Its expanded toe tips and compact body help it move over steep sandstone surfaces and shelter in crevices. Breeding is tied to temporary pools that form after rain on the canyon floor.

Its vivid red, green, black and white pattern may discourage predators, but it is not generally presented as a dangerously poisonous frog to humans. Handling wild amphibians is still discouraged because skin oils can harm them and pathogens can spread between sites.

Its tiny geographic range makes it vulnerable to habitat disturbance, fire, collection and changes in rainfall. Part of its habitat lies within Isalo National Park, but protection of breeding pools and canyon habitat remains important.