A team of diverse researchers and scientists recently discovered a new genus (category) of tree frog in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
A team of diverse researchers and scientists recently discovered a new genus (category) of frogs in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and also northeast of India.
As reported by Hindustan Times, the genus has been named Rohanixalus, after Sri Lankan taxonomist Rohan Pethiyagoda.
Frogs of this genus are characterised by a small and slender body (2-3cm), contrasting lateral lines and distinct behavioural traits.
According to Deccan Herald, the main behavioural trait noticed by researchers were the maternal parental care patterns. The mother frog attends to the egg clutches until hatching and assists in the release of the tadpoles.
This behaviour isn’t seen across all frog species’ so it is unique.
The science and discovery aspect of it is truly impressive but look at how small and cute it is!
“The discovery is unexpected and once again highlights the importance of dedicated faunal surveys and explorations for proper documentation of biodiversity in a mega diverse country like India,” said SD Biju, one of the researchers on the team.
Scientists now have a reason to believe that many more unnamed Rohanixalus species are likely in the Indian subcontinent.
Originally published at mashable