New Frog Species Discovered on Mount Merapi, Highlighting Indonesian Biodiversity Conservation

A new species of frog, measuring only about two centimeters in length, has been discovered inhabiting the leaf litter of Mount Merapi in Indonesia. This newly identified species has been named "Philautus candrageni." It is distinguished from its three known relatives by its smaller size, smoother skin, and uniform coloration. Its call is also noted to be brief and high-pitched, in contrast to the more vocal nature of its kin. The discovery was made by a collaborative research team comprising scientists from the Indonesian National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), several universities, and the Herpetological Society of Indonesia. They encountered the new species serendipitously while conducting research aimed at re-examining the taxonomy of the frog genus Philautus in Java. Utilizing an integrative approach that incorporates morphology, bioacoustics, and molecular analysis, the researchers aim to gain a more comprehensive understanding of biodiversity and strengthen the scientific basis for future species conservation efforts. Alamsyah Elang Nusa Herlambang, a researcher from BRIN's Center for Biosystematics and Evolution, stated via BRIN's Instagram account on Friday (3/7/26), "Through an integrative approach, starting from morphology, bioacoustics, to molecular analysis, we can understand biodiversity more holistically while strengthening the scientific basis for future species conservation efforts." Currently, Java is home to three endemic species within the Philautus genus: Philautus jacobsoni found on Mount Ungaran (Central Java), Philautus pallidipes on Mount Gede Pangrango (West Java), and Philautus aurifasciatus on Mount Tangkuban. The discovery of Philautus candrageni on the slopes of Mount Merapi brings the total number of Philautus species in Java to four. The genus Philautus, commonly known as shrub frogs, is widely distributed across South Asia and exhibits significant diversity. Unfortunately, P. pallidipes and P. jacobsoni are considered lost species, known only from specimens, with P. jacobsoni potentially extinct in the wild due to a lack of observational records. This discovery underscores the immense biodiversity present in Indonesia and highlights the ongoing need for scientific exploration and conservation initiatives to protect its unique natural heritage.