A dazzling new species of poison dart frog has been uncovered deep in Brazil’s Amazon, and its vibrant color is turning heads in the science world. Named Ranitomeya aquamarina for its shimmering blue-green stripes, the tiny amphibian was found in the Juruá River basin by a team led by researcher Evan Koch.
This “Amazonian hidden gem” plays a vital role in the rainforest ecosystem by keeping insect populations in check and serving as a health indicator for the environment. Though it naturally deters most predators with its toxins, the frog faces growing threats from disease and habitat loss. Scientists hope its discovery will shine a spotlight on the region’s still-hidden biodiversity and encourage efforts to protect it for generations to come.