New tiny frog species discovered in Costa Rican coffee fields

A new species of tiny greenish frog, known as the "spring frog" or "coffee frog," has been discovered in Costa Rica's central Pacific region within coffee plantations. Measuring less than four centimeters, the amphibian has been observed in San Lorenzo de Tarrazu. The species, endemic to Costa Rica, was identified by researcher Wagner Chaves-Acuna, who confirmed it as a new tree frog species.

Males of the species have a translucent throat that enlarges with their high-pitched call. The frogs are active at night, singing while perched on coffee shrubs. They prefer shade, moisture, and small insects in the habitat, feeding on the insects rather than the coffee berries. Chaves-Acuna expressed concern over the potential risks posed by agrochemicals used in farming, noting that pesticides can travel through the air and soil, entering the aquatic systems where the tadpoles develop.