Researchers from the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL), in collaboration with Ovidius University of Constanta in Romania and the National Institute of Biodiversity (INABIO), have identified three new frog species in southern Ecuador’s Andes. The species, named Pristimantis chusquea, Pristimantis translucidus, and Pristimantis oculolineatus, are closely linked to mountain forests dominated by Andean bamboo.
The newly described frogs inhabit elevations between 2,400 and 3,100 meters in areas where Chusquea bamboo is prevalent. Their coloration and body texture resemble dried bamboo leaves, providing camouflage against predators.
Pristimantis chusquea is a small frog with females measuring about 31 millimeters in length. It displays a cream to light brown dorsal color with dark lines and spots that mimic dry bamboo leaves. Pristimantis translucidus is also small, has a pale to yellowish dorsal color, and males have a slightly translucent vocal sac. This species has been found in three locations: Podocarpus National Park, Tapichalaca Reserve, and mountains near the Sangola River. Pristimantis oculolineatus is characterized by a distinct dark line through its eye and an irregularly spotted cream to brown back. Its distribution includes protected areas such as Podocarpus National Park, Yacuri National Park, and Numbala Reserve.
Two of these species are classified as Endangered while one is considered Least Concern according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
The research team used genetic, morphological, and bioacoustic analyses to describe the new species. The findings highlight the high biodiversity yet to be discovered in Ecuador’s Andes and stress the need for conservation due to threats like deforestation and climate change. “Protecting bamboo forests does not only mean conserving plants but also an entire community of highly specialized species that depend on them,” stated the researchers.
More details on this study can be found at https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/206/1/zlaf194/8423383.
