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Cover of A New Species of Frog (Genus Tomodactylus) from Western México

A New Species of Frog (Genus Tomodactylus) from Western México

Written by Robert G. (Robert Gravem) Webb

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Frogs

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About this book

"A New Species of Frog (Genus Tomodactylus) from Western México" by Robert G. Webb is a scientific publication written in the early 1960s. This work is categorized as a research paper focused on the field of herpetology, specifically detailing the discovery of a new frog species in Western Mexico. The book likely addresses the scientific aspects of taxonomy, anatomy, and habitat that pertain to this newly identified species. In this study, Webb presents findings from the collection of thirteen specimens of frogs from Durango and Sinaloa. He formally describes the species as "Tomodactylus saxatilis", providing comprehensive morphological details that differentiate it from other species in the genus. The paper includes the specific measurements and characteristics of the holotype and paratypes, alongside habitat descriptions that indicate a preference for rocky environments. The publication also discusses the similarities and distinctions between "Tomodactylus saxatilis" and other related species, contributing to the broader understanding of amphibian diversity in the region.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in A New Species of Frog (Genus Tomodactylus) from Western México, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 3 hours
  • advanced
  • analytical
  • descriptive
  • precise

Robert G. Webb's "A New Species of Frog (Genus Tomodactylus) from Western México" is a seminal herpetological research paper from the early 1960s, documenting the discovery and formal description of a new amphibian species. Based on thirteen collected specimens from Durango and Sinaloa, the study meticulously details the morphological characteristics of *Tomodactylus saxatilis*, differentiating it from congeners within the *Tomodactylus* genus. The publication establishes the holotype and paratypes, providing precise measurements and habitat preferences, notably its association with rocky environments. This scientific contribution significantly enhances the understanding of amphibian diversity and taxonomy in Western Mexico, adhering to rigorous scientific methodology.

“A new species of frog of the genus *Tomodactylus* is described from western México.”

Key themes

Taxonomy and Classification
This paper is fundamentally about the scientific process of identifying, describing, and classifying a new species. It meticulously details the morphological characteristics necessary to differentiate *Tomodactylus saxatilis* from its congeners, demonstrating the core principles of taxonomy in practice. The establishment of type specimens and comparative analyses are central to this theme.
Biodiversity and Discovery
The paper highlights the ongoing process of discovering new life forms, even in areas that may have been previously surveyed. It underscores the vast, often uncataloged, biodiversity of the natural world and the scientific endeavor to document it. The very act of naming a 'new species' is a testament to the richness of life and the continuous expansion of human knowledge.
Scientific Methodology and Empiricism
The paper exemplifies rigorous scientific methodology, relying on empirical observation, systematic data collection (measurements, descriptions), and comparative analysis to draw conclusions. It demonstrates the importance of verifiable evidence and a methodical approach in scientific inquiry, moving from raw data to a formally recognized scientific truth.

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What are the key criteria used to define and distinguish a new species in herpetology?

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