Phyllobates samperi
Phyllobates samperi, formerly known as sp. aff. aurotaenia is a new species of hypertoxic poison dart frog, once cited as the "red" form of Phyllobates aurotaenia. It resembles in size and to some extent in colouration to P. aurotaenia, but genetically it is the sister species of the "terrible" frog Golden [poison frog|P. terribilis]. It can be distinguished from P. aurotaenia by the absence of abundant blue or silver specks or marbling in the venter and limbs, its uniform black or bluish-black body, and its orange or red, rather than green or yellow, stripes.
The species was named to honour Colombian biologist Cristian Samper, for his lasting impact on the world of conservation, overseeing initiatives that span across 65 countries. He is considered a respected figure in the intersection of science, governance, and activism.
Distribution
The species is known to occur in the wet forests along the lower San Juan and Dagua river basins in the vicinities of Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca, Colombia, extending eastwards to the foothills of the Cordillera Occiental, but not surpassing elevations above above sea level. The northern limit of its distribution range remains unclear, since the medium and lower San Juan basin remain are poorly explored regarding dendrobatid frogs.The known distribution range of this species includes seven localities enclosed within a ~ polygon, where deforestation due to agriculture, the expansion of urban Buenaventura, and gold mining operations will certainly reduce the amount and quality of habitat. The species has been thus considered to be Vulnerable but a formal assessment is still missing.