Tadpole-Toting Frog

Shown giving its tadpole a piggyback ride, this poison dart frog, which may have medical potential, is one of a dozen possible new species encountered during a conservation expedition to Nangaritza, an isolated mountain region of southeastern Ecuador, Conservation International announced June 16, 2009. (See video of the potential new species.)

Scientists hope the discoveries will compel the Ecuadorian government to protect the area, which they say also provides clean water to the local people.

Poison dart frogs lay their eggs in the moist forest floor and later carry the tadpoles to water, said Robin Moore, an amphibian expert with the nonprofit organization.

--John Roach