A team of researchers from Guangdong Polytechnic of Environmental Protection Engineering and the Guangdong Provincial Academy of Environmental Science has uncovered a new frog species in Foshan, Guangdong Province on the Chinese mainland. Published on November 12, 2025, in the international taxonomic journal ZooKeys, the amphibian has been named Leptobrachella kungfu.
The discovery pays homage to Foshan’s cultural legacy as a "City of Kung Fu." By linking local heritage with scientific exploration, the naming highlights a creative approach to recognizing biodiversity hotspots in an urbanizing landscape.
Amphibians like Leptobrachella kungfu often serve as indicators of ecosystem health, living in the region’s streams and forested areas. This finding underscores the rich yet understudied wildlife of Guangdong, inviting further research into how urban and cultural settings can coexist with conservation efforts.
As this new species leaps into the limelight, it inspires young global citizens and nature enthusiasts alike to celebrate the intersections of tradition, science and environmental stewardship.
Reference(s):
New frog species found in south China's Guangdong, named after kung fu
cgtn.com
