"Treasure Trove" Of New Amphibian, Insect, Reptile Species Found On Ecuador-Peru Border

Near the once-contentious border of Ecuador and Peru in the mountainous forests of the Cordillera del Condor, scientists from Conservation International (CI) conducted a Rapid Assessment Program (RAP), uncovering what they believe are several new species, including four amphibians, one lizard, and seven insects.

“The species that we discovered on this expedition are fascinating and make clear how biologically important this area is – not only because of the wealth of plants and animals that inhabit it but also because of the service that it provides. to local people, like clean water and the opportunities for income from ecotourism. It is crucial that it is protected properly.” said Leeanne Alonso, Vice President of CI’s RAP.

The team focused on the Upper Nanharitza River Basin, which has been geologically isolated from the rest of the Andes, giving it broad potential for new species. The region is close to becoming a peace park between Ecuador and Peru, which fought over the nations’ borders in the late 1990s. CI hopes that these new discoveries will highlight the importance of moving forward to protect the area.

“Preservation of this incredible mountain range is definitely possible, even more so than for many other tropical forests, because of the active role of the local communities are playing in pushing for its protection,” Alonso said.

EDIT

http://news.mongabay.com/2009/0616-hance_newecuador.html