Detection of Cryptic taxa in the genus Leptophryne (Fitzinger, 1843) (Amphibia; Bufonidae) and the description of a new species from Java, Indonesia.

Abstract

We investigated phylogenetic relationships among populations of two species within the genus Leptophryne, L. cruentata and L. borbonica, using the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. As a result, we identified two distinct lineages within populations currently considered Leptophryne cruentata: 1) a lineage containing L. cruentata from the type locality, and 2) a lineage from Mt. Slamet and Mt. Ciremai. On the basis of genetic and morphological differences, we describe the Mt. Slamet and Mt. Ciremai populations as a new species, L. javanica sp. nov. The new species is distinguished from L. cruentata and L. borbonica by the following combination of morphological characters: the presence of distinct yellow mottling on the dorsum; relatively small body size (SVL male 22.2-24.0 mm, female 29.6 mm); relatively short hindlimbs (HLL 37.0-40.9 mm); relatively short fourth toe (4ToeL 4.3-6.0 mm); basal webbing on the hands, but well developed on toes; very protruding snout and an indistinct tympanum. In our preliminary phylogenetic analysis, we also detected four distinct lineages within Leptophryne borbonica: 1) a lineage containing true L. borbonica from west Java, 2) a lineage from Lampung (Sumatra I), 3) a lineage from northern Borneo, and 4) a lineage from Bengkulu (Sumatra II). Further studies are needed to determine taxonomic status of these lineages.