A New Leptobrachium (Vibrissaphora) from Laos (Anura: Megophryidae)

Abstract

A new species of the subgenus Vibrissaphora in the genus Leptobrachium is described from eastern Laos, on the basis of molecular and morphological evidence. The new species differs from all members of the subgenus by lack of spines on upper lip, small size with adult male SVL of 55.2 mm, indistinct tympanum, first finger longer than fourth, inner metatarsal tubercle smaller than first toe, 2⅓ phalanges of fifth toe unwebbed, dorsum nearly smooth and flanks with densely granulated skin, dorsum light brown with dark brown spots, flanks dark brown reticulated with cream spots, and abdomen cream with irregular brown markings. Classification of two subgenera in Leptobrachium is discussed.