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Loading...Tiny Frog Discovered Living Inside Carnivorous Plants
Scientists in Borneo have discovered a new species of frog, and think that it may be one of the world’s smallest.
Although the frog, Microhyla nepenthicola, is no bigger than the size of pea when fully grown, it lives fearlessly inside and around carnivorous pitcher plants in Malaysian rain forests.
The tiny amphibian was officially introduced to the world on Wednesday, but researchers say that they have been hiding in plain view for more than a century.
“I saw some specimens in museum collections that are over a hundred years old,” co-discoverer Indraneil Das said in a statement.
Originally, many scientists thought that the frogs were simply juveniles of other species, but now realize they are actually adults of this newly discovered microspecies.
Despite its tiny size, the frog produces a loud, distinct croak, which is why scientists were finally able to locate it.
“You often get tiny frogs making quite a noise,” said Robin Moore, a herpetologist who was not involved in the discovery told NationalGeographic.
Moore is heading a Conservation International project to rediscover a hundred species of “lost” amphibians that have been declared extinct within the past decade.
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Read more: amphibian, borneo, environment & wildlife, frog, malaysia, rain forest, sustaintmc
Image Credit: Indraneil Das, Institute of Biodiversity and Environmental Conservation
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Recent Comments from Causes
I hope they find another way soon.
Frightening, but thanks for sharing.
Thank you for sharing.
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451 comments
+ add your ownDelightful and fascinating, so very intriguing!
Thanks for the news.
What a cutie patootie! Save the frogs!!
Truly remarkable!
When I live in N.C. I came across frogs that were as small as these frog if not smaller in the forested areas & were fully grown. I was amazed at how tiny they were.
Wherever you are there once was a forest.
Plant & protect Danny's trees for life.
Trees are the lungs of the earth.
Sweet frog..we musy help save them!
Help us fight the global amphibian decline crisis! Text "frog" to 20222 to donate $5 to fight the amphibian decline crisis. www.amphibianrescue.com
This is a wonderful discovery. It could lead to medical history if - they are not killed off. Let's try to keep this earth friendly!
It is so cute. Tiny is to long a word for it. ty foe the information.
I imagine that it must be intense to be the first to discover a new species.-thanks
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