A report published in the journal Zootaxa indicates that a new species of toad, belonging to the genus Oreolalax, has been recognized as an endemic species recently discovered in Vietnam.
New toad species found only in Vietnam, discovered on Mount Pờ Ma Lung, Lai Châu (Photo: Zootaxa).
During an expedition to Mount Pờ Ma Lung, located in Phong Thổ District, Lai Châu Province, a research team from Indo-Myanmar Conservation, led by a Vietnamese individual, discovered a new toad species with distinct characteristics that had never been previously identified.
The species has been named Pờ Ma Lung Toad, and it is the second amphibian from the genus Oreolalax found in Vietnam, sharing many features with the Sterling’s Toad (scientific name: Oreolalax sterlingae).
However, researchers quickly identified unique traits of this toad, including black spots on its body, skin folds behind the eyes, a distinctive belly, and a two-toned iris.
According to experts, the discovery of this new toad species is a “victory” for the region known as Vietnam’s “frog hotspot” and an important step towards better conservation of wildlife— including species that we may not even be aware of yet.
“This is an exciting discovery, and it once again emphasizes the importance of protecting the forests of the Hoàng Liên Sơn range and the biodiversity found there,” said Dr. Ben Tapley, head of reptiles and amphibians at the London Zoo.
