New species of toad discovered in Angola mountains
Scientists on an expedition in southern Africa have discovered a new species of toad on the rocky Serra da Namba mountains in Angola, about 6000 feet above ground level.
Surveys conducted between 2016 and 2020 with results published on November 10, 2023, revealed amongst others that the new toad species named the Poyntonophrynus nambensis or the Namba pygmy toad has, “a distinct hourglass pattern,” Miami Herald reported.
Researchers further describe the new species as “a medium-sized toad reaching about 1.4 inches. It has a robust body, noticeable warts and a rough texture skin. The female toads are larger and rougher than males…its body is brownish grey with some lighter beige spots and brighter orange patches”
One of the female toads was pregnant and taken under surveillance. It later laid 545 black and white coloured eggs, the Miami Herald confirmed.
According to researchers, further DNA analysis on the new species “revealed a 6% and about 12% divergence from other pygmy toads.”
Located along the western coast of Angola in Cuanza Sul province, the Serra da Namba mountains is home to several species of animals.
