Newly Discovered Species of Nocturnal Frog Discovered on Costa Rican Coffee Plantations Faces Threads from Pesticide Use – CoffeeTalk

A newly discovered species of tree frog, known as the “spring frog” or “coffee frog,” thrives in Costa Rica’s coffee plantations but is at risk from farming-related agrochemicals. This tiny, nocturnal amphibian measures less than 4 centimeters and was first misidentified in the 1960s, only to be rediscovered and confirmed through genetic studies in 2021. Observations were made in San Lorenzo de Tarrazu, with researchers noting its distinctive features, including the males’ translucent throats that inflate during their high-pitched calls at night, when they are most active.

The spring frog exhibits a preference for shaded, moist areas within coffee crops, primarily feeding on small insects rather than the coffee berries themselves. However, researcher Wagner Chaves-Acuna raises concerns about the impact of pesticide use in coffee cultivation, as these chemicals can infiltrate both air and soil, subsequently affecting aquatic systems crucial for tadpole development. Moreover, the frog faces additional threats from waste dumping, increased tourism, and loss of vegetation due to the invasion of protected areas, necessitating ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard its habitat.

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