Researchers hope to increase conservation efforts as they become more knowledgeable about rainforests and their inhabitants. Many species live in different altitudes and microhabitats, making them vulnerable to climate change and environmental destruction.
The researchers aimed to study a complex group of treefrogs in Madagascar known as the Boophis marojezensis complex. To identify differences between species, they conducted field expeditions over several years, collecting frogs and recording their calls. They examined DNA, physical characteristics, and vocalizations to understand the frogs' diversity. Tissue samples were collected for genetic testing, and vocal recordings were analyzed to compare sounds. This combination of genetic, physical, and acoustic analysis helped the scientists distinguish between similar-looking species.
The study revealed that what was thought to be a single species of treefrog is actually eight distinct species. While these frogs look alike, their genetic make-up and sounds are quite different. The researchers found that these species don't share certain DNA markers and live in slightly different habitats across Madagascar. They even named these new species after famous characters from the "Star Trek" series, reflecting the unique "whistling" calls of the frogs.
There were some challenges in the study, including incomplete data for some frog species. Some of the frogs could not be analyzed fully because they only had samples from tadpoles or lacked genetic information. Also, the study depended on finding frogs in specific areas, so some regions might have undiscovered species.
The findings show that Madagascar's biodiversity is even more complex than previously known, with multiple "hidden" species. This diversity highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect these unique species, especially since some are only found in specific areas. The study also illustrates how combining genetics, morphology, and sounds can reveal new insights into animal species.
The fieldwork was supported by grants of the Volkswagen Foundation and Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft. Fieldwork in Makira was funded by the Zoo Zürich AG and logistically supported by the Wildlife Conservation Society Madagascar and fieldwork in Sorata by the Mohamed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund.
Fieldwork to Ampotsidy and other areas of the Bealanana district was funded by grants from the Royal Geographical Society, the Zoological Society of London, Cadogan Tate, The Scientific Exploration Society, crowdfunding via Indiegogo, the Freunde der Zoologischen Staatssammlung München and the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft.