BBC: Scientists discover frog that can't croak
International media reports on new species identified by UC biologist
The BBC reported on the astonishing discovery by researchers at the University of Cincinnati of a new species of voiceless frog in Tanzania's Ukaguru Mountains.
The Ukaguru spiny-throated reed frog does not croak, sing or ribbit. Found in Tanzania’s Ukaguru Mountains for which it is named, Hyperolius ukaguruensis is among the few frogs around the world that do not vocalize to other frogs.
The new species belongs to a group of “spiny throated” reed frogs, which true to their name have tiny spines on the male’s throat. Since they can’t rely on sound to recognize members of their species, they might use spines instead.
Researchers described the new species in the journal PLOS ONE.
“The male frogs don't call like most other frogs do. We think they may use the spine as something like Braille for species recognition,” said study lead author Lucinda Lawson, a conservation biologist and assistant professor of research in UC's College of Arts and Sciences.
“Without a call, they need some other way to recognize each other.”
Lawson published the study with co-authors Christoph Liedtke, Simon Loader and John Lyakurwa.
Featured image at top: Researchers found a new species of spiny-throated reed frog. Photo/Christoph Liedtke
More UC Biology in the news
UC assistant professor Lucinda Lawson worked with an international team on an amphibian survey in Tanzania. Photo/Joseph Fuqua II/UC
- Eurasia Review: Voiceless frog discovered in Tanzania
- Prensa Latina: New croakless frog discovered in Africa
- Earth.com: Voiceless frog found in Africa
Related Stories
University of Cincinnati gets $1.1M for AI physician training
January 30, 2026
The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has received a four-year, $1.1 million grant to explore using artificial intelligence and personalized learning to improve physician education.
Research findings may lead to new test for endometriosis
January 30, 2026
Endometriosis affects one in 10 women worldwide, and many go years before diagnosis. Symptoms include chronic pelvic pain, heavy bleeding during menstruation and/or sexual intercourse, bloating and fatigue. Katie Burns’ research at the University of Cincinnati is focused on creating a new, non-invasive test for endometriosis, using white blood cells as biomarkers. Burns, PhD, is an associate professor in the Department of Environmental and Public Health Sciences in the College of Medicine.
Local business benefits from city services
January 30, 2026
A new study from professor Brasington shows that renewing local taxes for city services actually benefits local businesses, despite preconceived notions that taxes are inherently bad for business. Published in Regional Science and Urban Economics.