A new kind of poison frog was discovered in the Amazon rainforest, in a border area between the Brazil and southeastern Peru.
Nominated Raniomeya isthe species was described in a study published in the scientific journal Zootaxa and draws attention both for its striking appearance and its unique behavior.
Ranitomeya hwata has a small body covered with bright yellow stripes on its back, as well as visible spots on its legs, paws and belly.
Initially, scientists believed that it was a variation of the already known species Ranitomeya sirensis, but more detailed analyzes revealed important differences, especially in the song.
The croaking of the new species has higher frequency e more pulses per call than other frogs of the same genus. This distinct vocal characteristic was one of the first clues that indicated that it was a species never recorded before. The researchers also identified differences in habitat and reproductive habits.
While other frogs of the genus tend to exhibit monogamousmales of R. hwata demonstrate a polygamous behavior. They mate with different females, which may indicate an adaptive advantage in their specific environment.
One of the most fascinating aspects about the new species is its strong connection with Guadua bambooa plant native to the Brazilian and Peruvian Amazon. Scientists have observed that tadpoles develop inside bamboo stemsin natural cavities filled with water, which offer protection against predators.
“The most remarkable thing about this species is how much it really loves living in Guadua bamboo,” highlighted the study’s lead author in an interview with IFLScience. He adds that, unlike other species that use bamboo only in some populations, the Ranitomeya hwata depends almost entirely on this plant to survive and reproduce.
The discovery represents yet another example of the richness and complexity of Amazonian biodiversity and reinforces the importance of preserving tropical forests.
Species such as Ranitomeya hwata are still unknown to science, and their study can help to better understand the region’s delicate ecosystems.
Furthermore, this contributes to the understanding of the evolution of reproductive behaviors in amphibians and the relationship between species and their natural habitats. Its venom, like that of other members of the same genus, could also be the target of future biomedical research.
