Prelims: Environmental ecology. Mains: Conservation,
Why in news?
A new species of gecko, Cnemaspis brahmaputra, has recently been discovered in Assam, highlighting the rich biodiversity of Northeast India.
About Cnemaspis brahmaputra:
- Named in - Honor of the Brahmaputra River
- Location - Discovered near the Dirgheswari Temple on the bank of Brahmaputra River in Guwahati, Assam.
- Published by - Taprobanica, the Journal of Asian Biodiversity.
- Genus and Family - It belongs to the genus Cnemaspis, which is widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia.
- It falls within the podihuna clade, a grouping predominantly found in Sri Lanka.
- Cnemaspis brahmaputra is only the 2nd representative of this clade on the Indian mainland, the other being Cnemaspis assamensis.
- Morphological Features - Unlike most geckos in Northeast India which are nocturnal, Cnemaspis brahmaputra is diurnal (active during day).
- Distinguished from its close relatives by -
- A larger body size (30.8–35.7 mm).
- Fewer midbody scale rows.
- A higher number of ventral scales (enlarged scales on the underside).
- Absence of tubercles (small rounded projections) on lower flanks.
- 3 enlarged rows of thigh scales parallel to the enlarged femoral scale row.
- Geographical Importance- The discovery near the Brahmaputra River underscores the critical role of major rivers as:
- Geographic barriers - Isolating populations and leading to speciation.
- Evolutionary engines -Shaping the distribution and genetic diversity of species.
- Its restricted range alongside the river enhances understanding of local endemism and biodiversity patterns in Assam.
- Signifying rivers - Environmental role as both a barrier and corridor for species evolution, and its symbolic connection to Assamese identity.
- Cultural Importance- Naming of the species pays tribute to the Brahmaputra River's deep importance in Assamese folklore, daily life, & regional pride.
- Finding aims - To boost local awareness about Assam's unique biodiversity and the urgent need for its conservation amidst ecological threats.
- Significance - Highlights Northeast India's status as a biodiversity hotspot and emphasizes the ongoing importance of scientific exploration in under-studied habitats to uncover new species and understand evolutionary processes.
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- ReferenceThe Hindu| Cnemaspis Brahmaputra
