Genetic research reveals five distinct Alpine newt species in Europe

New species identified on Vlasina Plateau

Researchers from Leiden University discovered a complex of five cryptic species that look identical but differ genetically. One species found on the Vlasina Plateau bordering Serbia and Bulgaria had never been described before. Scientists gave it the official name Mesotriton similis following publication in the journal Zootaxa. The English name proposed for this animal is the Vlasina Alpine newt.

Genetic differences exceed human chimp gap

Biologist Ben Wielstra of Naturalis and Leiden University explained that genetic divergence is at least as great as between humans and chimpanzees. Mating between these distinct groups produces offspring much less likely to survive in the wild. Three of the five species are found within the Netherlands alone due to introductions from other regions. Dutch environments have also received animals originating from Italy and the Balkans.

Vulnerability and taxonomic debate continue

The newly described species is the rarest Alpine newt in Europe with a limited range and small population. Experts warn it faces high vulnerability from pollution, habitat degradation, and the introduction of fish. Amphibian experts disagree on whether the group should be called Mesotriton or Ichthyosaura as that question remains unsettled. According to the authors, future research might lead to a change in the species' name.