Researchers from the Gene Research Institute have discovered two new amphibian species: the Thao Tree Frog (Zhangixalus thaoae) and the Brown Dwarf Frog (Vietnamophryne aurantifusca).
The research team, in collaboration with scientists from Germany and Russia, identified the Thao Tree Frog (Zhangixalus thaoae) in Lao Cai Province. This species belongs to the Zhangixalus genus and was found at an altitude of nearly 1,900 meters above sea level. The findings were published in the journal Zookeys on April 8, increasing the number of recorded species in this genus in Vietnam to ten.
Tree frogs are primarily arboreal, showcasing some of the most vibrant colors among amphibians in Vietnam. The Thao Tree Frog exhibits distinctive morphological features, such as bright-colored limbs and red eyes. However, this new species possesses unique morphological characteristics compared to others in the same genus, including a dorsal body and head color that is solid green without spots, a large black spot on the orange thigh, and gray patterns on the underside of the orange webbing, with bronze-red irises.
Thao Tree Frog found in the wild. (Photo: Research Team)
Associate Professor Dr. Nguyen Thien Tao from the Gene Research Institute, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, noted that the new tree frog species was discovered during field surveys in the forested area of Y Ty, Lao Cai Province. At first glance, this species can easily be mistaken for previously described species, but genetic comparisons revealed distinct separations. Upon careful examination of the specimens, several clear morphological differences were identified. The research team will continue studying the biology and ecology of this new species, including its reproductive habits, tadpole descriptions, and population sizes in the wild.
Previously, Professor Tao’s research group also discovered the Brown Dwarf Frog in Tuyen Quang Province. The Brown Dwarf Frog, scientifically named Vietnamophryne aurantifusca, is named for its distinctive body coloration, combining the Latin words for orange (aurantium) and brown (fuscus).
The new species shares morphological similarities with the Chiang Rai Dwarf Frog (V. occidentalis) found in Thailand; however, it is characterized by its brown-orange back with large black spots, and its chest and belly are orange-yellow.
Dorsal view (A), ventral view (B), lateral view (C), dorsal view of the right forelimb (D), and ventral view of the left hind limb (E) of the Brown Dwarf Frog. (Photo: Research Team).
Professor Tao mentioned that both new species are distributed in Northern Vietnam, highlighting new discoveries about the rich diversity of the amphibian fauna in Vietnam, particularly in hard-to-reach mountainous areas.
