Two New Species of Bryophryne (Anura: Strabomantidae) from High Elevations in Southern Peru (Region of Cusco)

Researchers have identified two new species of Bryophryne frogs in the high-altitude puna regions of southern Peru, specifically in the Province of La Convención within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cuzco. These discoveries bring the total number of known Bryophryne species to eight. One species is notable for being the second known to possess a tympanic annulus and membrane, along with vocal slits and sacs, distinguishing it by its blackish-brown venter adorned with yellow, orange, or pale pink blotches. The other species exhibits a unique coloration pattern, with males displaying an orange and pale gray mottled venter, while the single female observed has a black and pale gray mottled venter. Both species were found at elevations of 3800–4000 meters, inhabiting moss and Peruvian feather grass (Stipa ichu) respectively. The study provides a detailed map of type localities for all known Bryophryne species, contributing valuable data to the understanding of amphibian biodiversity in this region.

Lehr, E., & Catenazzi, A. (2010). Two New Species of Bryophryne (Anura: Strabomantidae) from High Elevations in Southern Peru (Region of Cusco). Herpetologica, 66(3), 308–319. https://doi.org/10.1655/09-038.1