Suriname

This orchid (Phragmipedium lindleyanum) is one of several rare and beautiful orchid species found in Grensgebergte Mountains. Many rare species occur on these distinctive granite outcroppings in Suriname. Species such as this that occur on mountaintops are highly vulnerable to climate change, since they are unable to migrate upslope in response to warming temperatures Conservation…

Snouted tree frog (Scinax sp.) one of six new species of frogs scientists found during the expedition. This species represents the newest member of a diverse genus of very agile, fast-moving frogs with over 100 species. One individual leapt right onto the table during dinner at camp, and still nimbly eluded the numerous scientists Stuart…

The unusual dorsal coloration of this poison dart frog (Anomaloglossus sp.) differs from a similar species (Anomaloglossus baeobatrachus) found at the same sites. Poison dart frogs are famous for the powerful toxins they secrete – this poison is used by local people to hunt for food, but it also holds enormous potential to yield new…

This undescribed katydid species (Pseudophyllinae: Teleutini) is so strange that it actually represents an entirely new genus to science. Its unusually long, gangly legs are covered in sharp spines which help to deter predators. Many katydids are sensitive to habitat disturbance, and the species found on this expedition indicate the region is pristine Piotr Naskrecki/Conservation…

The mountains and forests of south-eastern Suriname are often shrouded in clouds, and are among the wettest areas of the country. They provide an important source of freshwater that flows downstream where it sustains more than 50,000 people. These remote forests are in pristine condition Trond Larsen/Conservation International

This catfish species (Parotocinclus sp.) was collected in a tributary of the Upper Palumeu River. It has an unusual pigmentation pattern, similar to Microglanis catfish Conservation International

A head and tail-light tetra (Hemigrammus aff. ocellifer), closely related to a fish much appreciated by aquarium enthusiasts. This is just one of 11 new fish species discovered on the expedition, including a South American darter and a three-barbeled catfish. Fish were diverse and plentiful at the study sites, including many large fishes that were…

A waterfall near the base of Kasikasima Mountain. The riparian zone along the region’s numerous streams and rivers provides important habitat for an enormous diversity of terrestrial and aquatic species © Trond Larsen/Conservation International

A tiny ‘lilliputian beetle’ (Canthidium cf. minimum) is possibly even a new genus. At just 2.3mm long, it may be the smallest dung beetle in the Guiana Shield, and perhaps the second smallest of currently described species in South America. Its antler-like antennae provide an acute sense of smell. Dung beetles play critical ecological roles…