New Species of Frog Discovered in South Africa’s Cederberg Region

In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a new species of frog, the Cederberg Dainty Frog (Cacosternum cederbergense), which is endemic to the Cederberg region of South Africa. This tiny, 10mm by 23mm, frog has adapted to survive in the harsh environment of the northern Cederberg, where it lives among rocky outcrops and breeds in small pools of water that form after the winter rains.

The first specimen was found by herpetologist Marius Burger in 1997, but it was mistakenly used in the description of a distantly related species, the Karoo Dainty Frog, in 2002. It wasn’t until 2021, when a team of researchers began collecting specimens and studying the frogs’ genetic, physical, and sound-based characteristics, that they confirmed the Cederberg Dainty Frog is a completely new species.

The new species is distinct from its close relatives in several ways. It lacks the dark streak from the eye to the iris that other species have, and it has larger glands near its jaw and heart-shaped bumps on its hands. The sound it makes is also lower in pitch compared to other frogs, further helping to distinguish it.

The discovery of the Cederberg Dainty Frog adds to the biodiversity of the Cederberg region and highlights the need for continued research and conservation. As climate change poses a threat to many species, understanding and protecting frogs like the Cederberg Dainty Frog is more important than ever.

The researchers located 17 specimens of the new species and are eager to continue studying this remarkable frog. As Tyrone Ping, one of the authors of the paper, notes, "The Cederberg Dainty Frog is a symbol of the unique and delicate ecosystems of the Cederberg. It’s a reminder of the importance of preserving these ecosystems and the incredible diversity of life that exists within them."

The discovery of the Cederberg Dainty Frog is a significant find, not only for the scientific community but also for the people of South Africa. It serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the need to protect the natural world for future generations.