Phrynobatrachus alticola Guibé & Lamotte, 1961 is a junior synonym of Phrynobatrachus tokba (Chabanaud, 1921)

Abstract

Based on genetic similarity of topotypic material from Phrynobatrachus alticola and P. tokba, we synonymise the first with the latter. We analysed tissue samples from almost the entire distributional range of P. tokba. We report six 16S rDNA haplotypes with only little variation. Haplotypes were identical in specimens from the both type localities. In contrast, we report on differences in colour pattern, habitat choice and calling behaviour between frogs from Guinea and Mt Sangbé National Park, Ivory Coast (Guinea clade) and specimens from south‐western Ivory Coast to Ghana (Taï clade). Guinea clade specimens were always found close to water, which might speak in favour of a reproductive behaviour different to that of the Taï clade (direct development of terrestrial eggs).