Cryptic diversity in toads of the Rhinella marina species group (Anura, Bufonidae) with a subjectively beautiful new species from Western Ecuador.

This article focuses on the taxonomic revision of the Rhinella marina species group of giant or cane toads, revealing that populations from western Ecuador represent a distinct, previously undescribed species named Rhinella bella. Using an integrative approach combining mitochondrial DNA analysis, morphology, bioacoustics, and ecological niche data, the study demonstrates that R. bella forms a well-supported monophyletic clade genetically, morphologically, and acoustically distinct from its sister species Rhinella horribilis (found in Central America and southern Texas) and Rhinella marina (from the Amazon Basin). Rhinella bella is characterized by smaller body size, unique skull shape, distinct advertisement calls with fewer notes and higher dominant frequency, and a climatic envelope differing from related species. The new species occurs on the western side of the Andes in Ecuador and likely extends into southwestern Colombia and northern Peru, inhabiting diverse natural and disturbed habitats, and is recommended for a Least Concern conservation status.