A new species of Andean frog of the genus Bryophryne from southern Peru Anura: Craugastoridae) and its phylogenetic position, with notes on the diversity of the genus

Researchers have identified a new species of Andean frog, Bryophryne sp., within the wet puna and elfin forests of Manu National Park, Peru. This discovery expands the genus Bryophryne to nine species, all endemic to the Cordillera Oriental of the Peruvian Andes. The new species is distinguished by its lack of vomerine processes, inconspicuous tympanic features, smooth dorsal skin with warts, and bright, variable coloration ranging from olive-green to red. Phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial and nuclear DNA places this frog as a sister group to Bryophryne cophites, contributing to the understanding of the genus' evolutionary relationships. The study also notes the species' restriction to high-altitude environments (3506–3651 m) within protected areas, highlighting its potential conservation significance.

CHAPARRO, J. C., PADIAL, J. M., GUTIÉRREZ, R. C., & RIVA, I. D. L. (2015). A new species of Andean frog of the genus Bryophryne from southern Peru Anura: Craugastoridae) and its phylogenetic position, with notes on the diversity of the genus. Zootaxa, 3994(1). https://doi.org/10.11646/zootaxa.3994.1.4