A Taxonomic Revision of the Leptodactylid Frog Genus Syrrhophus Cope

"A Taxonomic Revision of the Leptodactylid Frog Genus Syrrhophus Cope" by John D. Lynch is a scientific exploration into the classification of Syrrhophus frogs, a group inhabiting regions from Texas to Peru. This comprehensive work re-evaluates the taxonomy of these frogs, previously categorized under the Syrrhophus genus, clarifying their evolutionary relationships through meticulous analysis. The piece starts by examining the history of the Syrrhophus genus, highlighting the initial categorization by Cope and later modifications by other scientists. Lynch discusses past research, definitions of species groups, and the methods he used in his revision revealing the need to re-examine certain species defining characteristics. The revision emphasizes physical features, like palmar tubercles and body size, as crucial for distinguishing between the species. The work sets the stage for a detailed examination of the variations among taxonomic categories within the genus, with the ultimate goal of improving our knowledge of their evolution and the range of their biodiversity.