Lead researcher, Juan C. Sánchez-Nivicela, and his colleagues are also fans of Tolkien’s books, describing themselves as “dreamers” whose jobs have taken them to places similar to the scenic landscapes represented in books and art.
In recent months, several significant scientific discoveries have been named after celebrities, including a powerful compound that kills fungus named after actor Keanu Reeves.
Five new species of snakes were discovered in Central and South America. And one was named after Leonardo DiCaprio’s mother.
The discovery of Hyloscirtus tolkieni adds to the growing body of knowledge about the unique and fascinating species found in the world’s forests, highlighting the importance of protecting these ecosystems.