Liberia’s forests, coastal wetlands and isolated highlands harbor a handful of species found nowhere else, shaped by its mix of rivers, plateaus and seasonal pools. Local surveys and historical records mean some animals are known only from specific sites, so each species tells a bit of Liberia’s ecological story.
There are 3 Animals Only Found in Liberia, ranging from Liberian Killifish to Nimba Puddle Frog. For each, you’ll find below Scientific name,IUCN status,Known range in Liberia so you can quickly see identity, conservation standing and where they occur.
How do researchers confirm a species is found only in Liberia?
Endemism is established from specimen records, field surveys and literature reviews; when all verified observations and museum records point to occurrences inside Liberia and none elsewhere, experts label it endemic, though new surveys or genetic studies can expand known ranges.
Where in Liberia should I look if I want to learn about or see these species?
Endemic species are tied to particular habitats—coastal pools, forest streams or mountain bogs—so check the “Known range in Liberia” column you’ll find below and consult local guides or conservation groups before visiting to increase chances of locating them responsibly.
Animals Only Found in Liberia
| Name | Scientific name | IUCN status | Known range in Liberia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nimba Puddle Frog | Scotobleps exiguus | Not Yet Assessed (described in 2021) | East Nimba Nature Reserve, Nimba County |
| Liberian Long-nosed Frog | Amnirana liberiana | Data Deficient | Known only from the Grassfield area, north-central Liberia |
| Liberian Killifish | Scriptaphyosemion liberiense | Vulnerable | Coastal rainforest streams in western and central Liberia |
Images and Descriptions
Nimba Puddle Frog
Discovered in 2021, this tiny frog is known only from a single stream on Nimba Mountains. Its extreme rarity and restricted range make it a flagship species for the conservation of this unique Liberian ecosystem, highlighting how much is left to discover.
Liberian Long-nosed Frog
This elusive frog is so poorly known that its conservation status is a mystery. Endemic to north-central Liberia, its presence underscores the need for more research into the country’s unique amphibian life, which may be threatened by habitat loss.
Liberian Killifish
A colorful jewel of Liberia’s small streams, this beautiful killifish is found nowhere else on Earth. Its survival is directly tied to the health of Liberia’s coastal rainforests, making it vulnerable to deforestation and water pollution from agriculture.
