Two new poison frog species discovered in Amazon, scientists issue warning — Here’s why

In life holotype of Ranitomeya aetherea sp. nov. (A) lateral and (B) dorsal view, (C) lateral view showing the spots in lateroventral and inguinal region. (Image: A. T. Mônico via a Creative Commons license/journals.plos)

Deep in the stillness of the Amazon, researchers discovered new voices. Concealed behind the lush jungle, two small frogs were noticed—not by size, but by colours and sounds.

Remote jungles uncover two hidden frog species

Two poison dart frogs were new to science. They were found along the Brazil-Peru border of the Amazon. Researchers spent years following them through remote trips. The trip involved a brief flight and extended boat ride. They passed along the Juruá River to access dense forest. This region had kept the frogs out of sight until now.

The frogs are in the Ranitomeya genus and are tiny. All are only 15 to 17 millimetres in length—roughly the size of a dime. The first, Ranitomeya aquamarina, is black with turquoise stripes. The second, Ranitomeya aetherea, has sky-blue bands on a red colour. Their colours led to them being called "metallic poison frog" and "heavenly poison frog".

Love lives and habits vary subtly

Though they are roughly the same size, the frogs behave in diametrically opposed manners. Ranitomeya aquamarina occurs in pairs, perhaps exhibiting uncommon monogamy. Such behaviour is uncharacteristic among poison frogs, which tend to exist individually. Ranitomeya aetherea males, however, remain alone. They give loud vocalisations to invite females, who do not linger long.

Both animals rear tadpoles in water at leaf stalks. They tend to nest in palm-like vegetation where rain pools. However, their contrasting mating behaviour demonstrates how close species can be but behave differently.

Appearance is misleading; genes verify the facts

It was not easy to distinguish them with just a glance. Scientists examined their mating calls and body forms in minute detail. Genetic testing and acoustic measurements helped prove the distinction. Appearances can be deceptive, scientists said. Some have identical colour patterns, while others appear distinct within the same group. DNA analysis revealed these frogs are on different evolutionary branches.

A delicate discovery in a disappearing forest

The frogs inhabit tiny forest patches mere miles from each other. With their limited range, they are particularly vulnerable. During field trips in 2023 and 2024, forests around the area were cleared. Researchers observed increased areas being chopped near frog habitats.

The Amazon is under increasing pressure from agriculture, logging and climate change. The frogs may also be threatened by illegal trade. Although their official conservation status remains to be determined, specialists worry. These finds remind us of how much remains to be discovered—and how quickly it might disappear.