Apayao forest survey identifies potential new species

A scientific herpetofaunal survey conducted in the forests of Calanasan, Apayao, from August 13 to 19 has identified at least 15 species of amphibians and reptiles. Among the documented animals, three Platymantis specimens have been flagged as potential new species previously unknown to science.

The findings are preliminary, and the specimens must undergo further taxonomic examination by specialists to confirm their identities. The research was a collaborative effort involving the University of Santo Tomas–Herpetological Research Collection (UST-HRC), Kyoto University, the Philippine Eagle Foundation (PEF), and the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) in Calanasan.

In addition to the potential new species, the survey documented various snakes, geckos, skinks, and frogs. Officials noted that these records provide essential baseline data for understanding forest ecosystems and strengthening conservation efforts within the Apayao Lowland Forest Key Biodiversity Area and the Apayao Biosphere Reserve.