Researchers have recently identified seven new species of tree frogs that produce unique calls in Madagascar’s rainforests. These unusual, high-pitched whistling sounds are reminiscent of sound effects from the famed science fiction series, Star Trek. Consequently, the researchers have chosen to name these newfound species after seven of the show’s legendary captains.
An international team of researchers have discovered seven new species of tree frogs that make otherworldly calls in the rainforests of Madagascar. Their strange, high-pitched whistling calls sound more like sound effects from the sci-fi series Star Trek. As a result, the researchers have named the new species after seven of the series’ most iconic captains.
While you might think all frogs croak, that’s not the case with these seven newly identified species from the tree frog genus Boophis. Found in Madagascar’s rainforests, they communicate using distinct bird-like whistling sounds.
The research team, led by Professor Miguel Vences from the Technische Universität Braunschweig, Germany, noted that the frogs’ calls reminded them of the whistle-like sound effects often found in Star Trek.
“This is why we decided to name the frogs after characters like Kirk, Picard, Sisko, Janeway, Archer, Burnham, and Pike — all of whom are celebrated captains from the series,” Professor Vences explained.
“Not only do these frogs resemble Star Trek sound effects, but finding them often requires considerable trekking! Some species are located in tourist-accessible areas, while for others, we had to embark on significant expeditions into remote forests and mountain tops. There is a genuine sense of scientific exploration here that truly reflects the spirit of Star Trek,” said Assistant Professor Mark D. Scherz from the Natural History Museum of Denmark at the University of Copenhagen, who is the study’s senior author.
To Drown Out the Sound of Water
The distinct calls of these frogs are termed “advertisement calls,” which may serve as a way for male frogs to communicate their suitability as mates to females. This group resides near rushing streams in Madagascar’s mountainous regions, which likely contributes to their high-pitched calling amid a loud environment.
Fans of Star Trek might find that some of the frog sounds evoke memories of the ‘boatswain whistle’ or a gadget known as the ‘tricorder.’ Others may even liken them to birds or insects.
“If these frogs just croaked like the familiar frogs in Europe, they might not be heard over the noise of the rushing waters nearby. Their high-pitched trills and whistles stand out amid all that sound,” explained Dr. Jörn Köhler, Senior Curator of Vertebrate Zoology at the Hessisches Landesmuseum Darmstadt, Germany, who played a crucial role in analyzing the frogs’ calls.
“The frogs’ appearance led to confusion with similar species in the past, but each species produces a unique pattern of high-pitched whistles, which has allowed us to distinguish them from each other and from other frogs,” he added.
The calls matched the team’s genetic analyses as well.
Vulnerable to Climate Change
Madagascar is famous for its rich biodiversity, and ongoing research in its rainforests continues to reveal new species, making it a true haven for frogs. The island, about the same size as France, is home to nearly 9% of the world’s frog species.
“We have only begun to uncover the secrets of Madagascar’s rainforests. With each forest expedition, we come across new species, and concerning frogs alone, we still have several hundred species yet to be described,” mentioned Professor Andolalao Rakotoarison from the Université d’Itasy in Madagascar. Over the past decade, she and her team have introduced about 100 new species from the island.
The researchers hope this discovery will enhance conservation efforts in Madagascar’s rainforests. The species often inhabit areas close in geography but differ in altitude and microhabitat, making them especially susceptible to climate or environmental changes.
Therefore, the research team emphasizes the need for increased awareness regarding the conservation of Madagascar’s biodiversity to protect these unique species and their habitats for future generations. They also aspire to continue their explorations to uncover new species in uncharted forests.
