ADVERTISEMENT CALL CHARACTERISTICS OF MALE SARAWAK FROGS (FAMILY RANIDAE)

The family Ranidae of Sarawak frogs comprises the genera Hylarana, Pulchrana, Abavorana, Chalcorana, Staurois, Meristogenys, Odorrana, and Huia. Studies revealed that the advertisement call characteristics emitted by male frogs vary in different species. This study aims to describe the characteristics of the male frogs in the advertisement call and analyse the call characters that are useful for species discrimination. Field samplings were conducted to record the frog calls for the sound call characteristic analysis. The f indings indicate that advertisement call characteristics could discriminate the frog species. Pulse duration, call energy, and call frequencies are among the useful characteristics that revealed a high correlation between dominant frequency and pulse duration and body size. The call properties are also useful in distinguishing individuals of the frog species among populations. In conclusion, this database will serve as a resource for future studies in understanding frog distribution and adaptation in their habitat.