Researchers from the Universidad Técnica Particular de Loja (UTPL), in collaboration with Ovidius University of Constanta in Romania and Ecuador’s National Institute of Biodiversity (INABIO), have identified three new frog species belonging to the genus Pristimantis. The newly described species—Pristimantis chusquea, Pristimantis translucidus, and Pristimantis oculolineatus—are native to the southern Andes of Ecuador and are closely linked to bamboo forests dominated by plants from the Chusquea genus.
The frogs were found at elevations between 2,400 and 3,100 meters above sea level. Their physical appearance, including coloration and body texture, allows them to blend into dry bamboo leaves, providing effective camouflage against predators.
Each species displays distinct features. Pristimantis chusquea is a small frog; females reach about 31 millimeters in length and exhibit a cream to light brown back with dark lines and spots that mimic dried bamboo leaves. Pristimantis translucidus is also small with a pale yellowish dorsal color and males possess a slightly translucent vocal sac. This species has been recorded in three locations: Podocarpus National Park, Tapichalaca Reserve, and mountains near the Sangola River. Pristimantis oculolineatus can be recognized by a well-marked dark line running through its eye and irregular spots on its cream to brown back; it inhabits protected areas such as Podocarpus National Park, Yacuri National Park, and Numbala Reserve.
The research combined genetic analysis with morphological and bioacoustic studies. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), two of these species are classified as Endangered while one is considered Least Concern.
The discovery highlights the high biodiversity still present in Ecuador’s Andean region and emphasizes the need for conservation efforts due to ongoing threats like deforestation and climate change. The researchers stated: “Protecting bamboo forests does not only mean conserving plants but also an entire community of highly specialized species that depend on them.”
The full study can be accessed at https://academic.oup.com/zoolinnean/article/206/1/zlaf194/8423383
