Herpetologists have identified three new species of the Frog genus Pristimantis from the rugged, misty highlands of northwest Peru.
To date, 619 species have been documented. Pristimantis is recognized as the most diverse group of amphibians.
This genus spans Central and South America, showcasing the highest diversity within the tropical Andes of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
The newly discovered species include Pristimantis Chinguelas, Pristimantis Nunezcortezi, and Pristimantis Yonke.
“They are small and elusive,” remarked Dr. Jamen Chavez, a herpetologist at the Peruano de Herpetrogia Institute and the Centro de Ornitrogia y Biodiversidad.
“These frogs serve as significant reminders of the unknown aspects of the Andes,” he added.
All three species inhabit the páramo of the mountain ridge north of Abra de Portuilla, the lowest east-west route in the Peruvian Andes, along with the adjacent Elphin forest.
“Pristimantis Chinguelas is found on the cliffs of Cello Chinlinga, characterized by bodies accented with large, prominent nodules on each side. Their high-pitched calls resonate on damp nights,” the researcher noted.
“Pristimantis Chinguelas resides near a stream in the cool mountains of the regenerated forest. Its distinct black spots in the x-fossa and groin have been named in honor of ornithologist Elio Nuñez Cortez, a trailblazer for conservation efforts in the region.”
“Pristimantis Chinguelas, the smallest of the trio, was discovered amidst bromeliads at an elevation of about 3,000 m.”
“Exploring this area goes beyond fieldwork—it’s about immersing oneself in the wilderness, culture, and resilience,” shared Dr. Karen Victoriano Siguenas from the Institutes of Herpetrogia and Centro de Ornitrogia Biodiversidad.
“Many of these mountain ridges are isolated, lacking roads or featuring extreme terrain,” stated Dr. Ivan Wong, another herpetologist at the Herpetrogia Institute.
“Weather conditions can change dramatically within minutes, and the steep cliffs create significant challenges for every step taken.”
“It’s no surprise that very few scientists ventured into this region before,” he added, “which is precisely why so many discoveries remain to be made.”
The three new species are currently categorized as Data Deficient under IUCN standards, with scientists noting signs of habitat degradation, fire damage, and agricultural expansion.
“Cordilera de Juancabamba represents not just a remote region, but also a living archive of biodiversity and cultural heritage,” remarked Dr. Wilmer Aznaran, a forensic physician at Peruano de Herpetrogia and Centro de Ornitrogia Biodiversidad.
“We have barely scratched the surface of these riches.”
The team’s paper was published in the journal Evolutionary Phylogenetics.
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G. Chavez et al. 2025. Above: Three new species of terrestrial breeding frogs (Anura, Terrarana, Pristimantis) from the highlands of Cordillera de Juancabamba in northwest Peru. Evolutionary Phylogenetics 9(1):145-166; doi:10.3897/evolsyst.9.148522
Source: www.sci.news
