University Researchers Identify Possible New Frog Species

NAMPA, Idaho (AP) — Northwest Nazarene University in Idaho is now home to two rare frog species, one of which may be previously undiscovered. The Idaho Press-Tribune reports that customs authorities in Hong Kong had confiscated the crowned and fringe-limbed tree frogs, and officials were looking for an institution to house them. University biologist John Cassel studies amphibians and applied for the university to host the frogs. When the amphibians arrived in July, they discovered one was not a shaman fringe-limbed as they were told. They researched the frog and could not find a matching species. Crossel says they plan to continue researching, and they hope to one day be able to name the new species. In order to confirm a species as new, it must be observed in the wild.