Researchers discover new frog species in Ecuador’s remote Cordillera del Cóndor peaks

A tiny frog found in Ecuador’s remote Cordillera del Cóndor has been identified as a new species and named Lynchius romolerouxae, honoring Ecuadorian botanist Katya Romoleroux.

The amphibian lives only in the montane forests and scrub of the Cerro Plateado Biological Reserve, in Zamora Chinchipe province. Researchers found it at elevations ranging from 2,350 to 2,893 meters, in a landscape known for sandstone plateaus resembling the tepuis of the Guiana Shield.

Reaching the frog’s habitat required a difficult expedition. With no roads into the geographically isolated area, the team spent two continuous days climbing through muddy trails and dense vegetation while carrying scientific and camping equipment. Researchers located the first specimens sheltering beneath rocks and among terrestrial bromeliads.

The species is among the smallest in its genus. Females measure 2.3 to 2.6 centimeters, while males measure 1.9 to 2.3 centimeters. Its grayish-brown body has dark tubercles and pale spots that help it blend into rock and leaf litter. The underside ranges from rusty brown to cream, with cinnamon-brown circular markings, while the throat can appear yellowish or pale salmon.

The frog has wrinkled dorsal skin, small tubercles above the eyelid, no visible external eardrum and no cranial crests. One specimen was collected by botanist Álvaro Pérez of the Pontifical Catholic University of Ecuador. The study involved PUCE, the National Polytechnic School and Ecuador’s National Biodiversity Institute. Herpetologists Ana Almendáriz C., Jorge Brito and Santiago R. Ron used morphological analysis and DNA sequences in the description.

“

The plateaus of the Cerro Plateado Biological Reserve are the highest point of the Cordillera del Cóndor, reaching nearly 3,000 meters, and they harbor high floristic diversity with unique morphological and physiological adaptations.