Scientists find a hundred new types of frog lurking in the forests of Sri Lanka

New tree frog species discovered by Boston University team in Sri Lanka

source: Steve Connor
Independent October 11 2002 p11

Researchers from Boston University have discovered between 120 and 140 unidentified tree frog species from Sri Lankan rainforests. Some of these frogs do not have tadpoles, but their eggs turn into froglets. The eggs are laid on leaves. This pattern could help explain why frogs in Sri Lanka appear to be doing well, whereas frogs elsewhere have been affected by a decline. Frogs that pass through a stage of being tadpoles may be more vulnerable.

A survey carried out in the same area a century ago found 100 species not found by this recent research team, which suggests some could have become extinct. The Sri Lankan rain forest has shrunk during this time.
AM,BC