Scientists have discovered three toad species that give birth alive. These species skip the tadpole stage entirely, a rare trait. The finding changes understanding of amphibian reproductive evolution globally. It also highlights Tanzania’s eastern arc mountains as biodiversity hotspots.
What Has Been Found?
The toads reproduce through internal fertilisation and live birth. Here, the females give birth to fully formed young one called “toadlets.” Such live-bearing behaviour occurs in less than one percent of amphibians.
The discovery challenges assumptions about the typical frog and toad lifecycle. It also shows unexpected diversity in reproductive strategies within amphibians.
Who and Where Made the Discovery?
A team of scientists led by the Natural History Museum studied specimens. They used DNA, morphology and historical museum collections for analysis. The specimens are some more than 120 years old which are preserved carefully.
Field studies confirmed that the toads still inhabit Tanzania’s high-altitude forests. The eastern arc mountains were the primary region where these species occur.
Three Toad species Found in Tanzania’s Forests
Each species occupies fragmented, high-altitude forests vulnerable to habitat loss. The three species were formally identified and named by researchers are: -
Nectophrynoides saliensis- This species was found in Uluguru Mountains which located in eastern Tanzania.
Nectophrynoides luhomeroensis- This species is restricted to Luhomero forest fragments nearby.
Nectophrynoides uhehe – This species was discovered in Uhehe highlands of Southern Tanzania.
Observations Made by Scientists
Scientists examined body shapes, calls and genetic markers carefully. Live birth was confirmed by dissection of preserved female specimens. DNA barcoding distinguished these species into three.
Horned, tree-dwelling adaptations may help in mating or microhabitat survival. The study on old museum specimens can help discover unknown species.
Future studies of these species
These findings provide a new twist in the evolution of amphibian reproduction in its complexity. Restricted and high-risk habitats may require immediate conservation strategy to be updated. It reminds the scientists that even familiar areas contain secret biodiversity. The results show that there is the need to conserve delicate ecosystems across the globe.
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