Scientists in the South American country of Suriname announced yesterday that they have discovered 24 new species of creatures, including a frog with flourescent purple markings and 12 new kinds of dung beetle.
The expedition into the area where the new species were discovered was sponsored by two mining companies. The companies hope to excavate the area for bauxite, the raw material used to make aluminum. Until recently, it was not known how the findings would affect their plans.
Scientists discovered the new species during a 2005 expedition led by the American nonprofit organization Conservation International. The discoveries were all located in rainforests and swamps about 80 miles southeast of Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname, according to spokesman Tom Cohen.
Among the species found were the atelopus frog (pictured), which has distinctive purple markings; six types of fish; 12 dung beetles, and one ant species.
The scientists called for better conservation management in the unprotected, state-owned areas, where hunting and small-scale illegal mining is common.
These finds just may change the mining companies' plans.
