Discovering species of

The small toad with two pairs of sharp horns was discovered in the forests of the misty and mossy mountains of Lam Dong, Vietnam.

On 12/12, in the 2017 New Species Report published by WWF, it was found that in one year, scientists around the world discovered 157 new species in the Greater Mekong Sub-region, of which 58 species are found in Vietnam.

Among them is a small toad with two pairs of sharp horns discovered in Lam Vien Plateau (Langbian) , Lam Dong.

Scientists named a species of western elves: "Toad mountain miniatures". The forests of misty and mossy high mountains are habitat suitable for hiding places of "fairy" species in fairy tales, "the report said. The rest are mammals and fish. , amphibians, reptiles and plants.

The new toad has a small body size (male length of 29.9 - 33.9 mm, female 35.1 - 36.5 mm), muzzle slightly protruding forward.

This species has a whistle like a whistling, multi-note, with dominant frequencies ranging from 4,030 to 4,920 Hz.

The species "Toad mountain of elves" was discovered by scientists in Vietnam.(Photo: WWF).

Stuart Chapman, Conservation Director for the Asia Pacific region, said: "There are many species waiting for scientists to discover and sadly, many other species will disappear before being discovered. The Mekong region can preserve its unique species diversity by establishing extensive protected areas for wildlife, along with strengthening efforts to close wildlife markets. "

WWF's latest Living Planet Report states that in the last 40 years, populations of wildlife have declined by 60%. In the Greater Mekong Sub-region, the population decline is probably worse by the widespread destruction of wildlife habitats and in many parts of the region illegal hunting takes place. on an industrial scale.

In Vietnam, an ongoing battle to save endangered wild species from hunters' traps - placed everywhere in the forests. WWF is working with local authorities to mobilize the cooperation of forest rangers and communities to eliminate illegal wildlife traps and raise awareness about the effects of wildlife consumption. to the survival of rare species of Vietnam.

In Vietnam, the new criminal code, effective in early 2018, has increased the maximum penalty for wildlife-related crimes from 7 to 15 years in prison.