Understanding Proceratophrys paviotii, a Near Threatened frog species, to understand its evolutionary background, call patterns, and conservation needs.
Herein, basel on novel data gathered by citizens scientists and specialists, we contribute to the improvement of scientific knowledge and conservation of the Near Threatened Proceratophrys paviotii in order to: 1) test for the first time the phylogenetic position and a species delimitation of P. paviotii through a molecular approach; 2) describe a larger sample of its advertisement call to properly encompass the species intraspecific variation; 3) describe for the first time the P. paviotii release call; and 4) provide novel insights on the species conservation status.
In the Press
Moradores de Santa Teresa, no ES, ajudam na localização de anfíbio exclusivo da Mata Atlântica
Sapinho de chifre: espécie quase em extinção tem registros inéditos
Opovo
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Anfíbio exclusivo da Mata Atlântica é mapeado com a ajuda de cidadãos cientistas no Espírito Santo
Conexao planeta
CiênciaNovo estudo revela aparições inéditas do sapinho de chifre no Brasil
BR104
“Iniciativas focadas na ampliação do conhecimento e monitoramento de anfíbios devem ser, cada vez mais, encorajadas. Nesse sentido, projetos de Ciência Cidadã têm contribuído em larga escala na geração de dados sobre anfíbios mundo afora”
Natalia Pirani Ghilardi-Lopes
Professor at UFABC
For All Readers - AI Explainer
What is this research about, and why is it important?
This study explores the Proceratophrys paviotii, a Near Threatened frog species, to understand its evolutionary background, call patterns, and conservation needs. It’s an exciting example of how citizen science—observations by the public combined with specialized scientific research—can improve our understanding of biodiversity and help protect at-risk species.
What new insights did the research reveal about Proceratophrys paviotii?
The study used a molecular analysis (16S gene tree) to confirm that P. paviotii is indeed a unique species, grouping it with other closely related frogs, such as P. cururu, P. renalis, and P. laticeps. It also documented the frog’s unique advertisement and release calls, which help distinguish it from other species in its genus. These details support its taxonomic classification and can aid in identifying this species in the wild.
How did citizen science contribute to this research?
Citizen scientists helped track the frog’s distribution, providing valuable data about where it lives and its habitats. This approach not only expanded the range of data collected but also allowed researchers to observe P. paviotii in both protected and disturbed environments, like coffee plantations and urban areas, helping gauge its adaptability and conservation needs.
Why are the frog’s calls so important in this study?
The calls of Proceratophrys paviotii are unique in terms of frequency, duration, and pulse rate, allowing researchers to differentiate it from other frogs in its genus. By recording and analyzing these calls, scientists can better understand the species’ behavior and its position within the broader Proceratophrys family, highlighting the importance of bioacoustics in studying frog species.
What does the research suggest about the conservation status of Proceratophrys paviotii?
Although P. paviotii is currently listed as Near Threatened, the study suggests it could be reclassified as Least Concern due to its presence in both protected and human-altered environments. This is a positive finding, as it shows the frog may be more adaptable than initially thought, though ongoing monitoring remains essential.
What does this research mean for future conservation and taxonomy efforts?
The study demonstrates the potential of citizen science in biodiversity research, showing how community involvement can provide critical data for taxonomy and conservation. It also underscores the need for detailed bioacoustic and genetic studies to properly classify species, which is crucial for effective conservation planning.
What’s next for this research and for Proceratophrys paviotii?
Continued monitoring and citizen science contributions are encouraged to track changes in P. paviotii’s population and habitat. Additionally, similar molecular and acoustic studies could be applied to other species, advancing both scientific knowledge and conservation strategies for amphibians and other wildlife.
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