Dance is a part of life. One is either a performer or spectator. Dance is also used in many a metaphor. The ‘dance of life,’ for instance, reflects the ups and downs of life.
However, are human beings the only species capable of dancing? Turns out, dancing is universal. It is not confined to human beings alone. For instance, the Micrixalidae Kottigeharensis, a species of frogs, is known for its dancing skills.
The ‘dancing frog,’ or the ‘kottigehar bush frog,’ as it is colloquially called, belongs to the Micrixalidae family of frogs. It takes its name Micrixalidae Kottigeharensis from the region in which it was first found–Kottigehar, Karnataka. It is brown in colour. It does not have any spots. The underbelly is plain white, and the throat has spots. Sometimes, female frogs have a tinge of orange on their sides and a little black mark in the centre.
The males dance to attract the females; scientists call it “foot-flagging.” The frog stretches its hind legs and flashes the toe webs. It does this continuously with a rhythm. The frogs also use dance to fend off rivals and to kick another unruly frog who comes into its territory.
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