Newly Discovered Angolan Species: Pregnant Creature with Unique Skin Texture
Scientists in Angola discovered a new species of toad, named Fernanda's pygmy toad (Poyntonophrynus fernandae), in rocky escarpment areas during wildlife surveys. The toads have a "sandpaper"-like skin, reach just over an inch in size, and exhibit color variations between males and females. They were found near large granite boulders in various habitats, including a coffee plantation and savannah area. The new species was named after Fernanda Lages, a genetics researcher and professor in Angola. DNA analysis revealed a genetic divergence of 3% to 12% from other pygmy toads.