Budgett’s Frog:
Researchers from the Indian Institute of Science’s (IISc.) molecular biophysics unit in a study have identified that peptides (short protein) produced from Budgett’s frog can combat enzymes of disease causing pathogens.
- The peptides (short proteins) produced from the skin of amphibians have long been studied because of their ability to counter unfavourable conditions in the environment, including harmful pathogens.
- The frog-secreted peptide inhibited two key enzymes called subtilisin carlsberg and proteinase K., produced by pathogens.
- These enzymes play a pivotal role in promoting infections by degrading specific protective proteins of the infected person.
Budgett’s frog:
- They are highly intelligent and very aggressive.
- When frightened, they inflate themselves, stand up on their short legs and if this doesn’t deter the potential predator, they lunge at them with an open huge mouth followed up by a shrill shriek.
- During the dry season, Budgett’s frogs remain in burrows they dig in the bottoms of pools of water.
- While in the burrow, they will shed several layers of skin from which to form a waterproof cocoon that will keep the frog moist.
- They use their exceptional night vision and their sensitivity to movement when hunting food.
- They are found near or in permanent or seasonal bodies of water in Paraguay, Argentina and Bolivia.
- Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Least Concern
Key findings of the research
