New Delhi: With its unique environmental conditions, the monsoon season in Mizoram has proven to be a prime time for scientific exploration. This year, it has led to the discovery of incredible new species in the renowned forests throughout the country. These species are often named after their distinguishing traits or the specific region in which they were found. The monsoon offers a prime opportunity for exploring and identifying various animal species.
Sometimes, these species are brand new and have never been studied by scientists. Other times, it’s about looking more closely at a species and its subspecies. Then, it’s agreed that they should be considered separate species.
Recently, a new snake species was found in Mizoram, and it has been named after the state. Let us learn more about the discovered species.
The new snake species
A groundbreaking development in herpetology has occurred with the unearthing of a previously unknown species of snake in Mizoram, known as Smithophis mizoramensis. Locally referred to as “Tuithiangrul” (Mizo Brook Snake), this newfound species represents a significant breakthrough in the region’s biodiversity, inspiring further exploration and conservation efforts.
The discovery of the Smithophis mizoramensis was a collaborative effort, a testament to the power of collective knowledge and expertise. It was spearheaded by the local wisdom of Prof HT Lalremsanga and Assistant Professor Dr M Vabeiryureilai of the Department of Zoology at Mizoram University, who worked in conjunction with researchers from India and the esteemed Max Planck Institute in Germany.
This newly identified snake enriches the catalogue of reptilian species inhabiting the area, emphasising the abundant herpetological diversity present in Mizoram. The snake was encountered in riparian habitats, where it primarily dwells near pristine hill streams at elevations exceeding 700 metres.
Notably, this species has been sighted in both lowland and highland regions of Mizoram, mainly near rivers and their surrounding ecosystems. This snake’s 15-year study in Mizoram makes it unique due to its resemblance to other known species.
However, significant distinctions in its DNA, with 10 to 14 per cent variations, and its unique colouration and scale patterns were instrumental in classifying it as a distinct species.
This edition belongs to the Smithophis genus, renowned for its dispersed distribution across Northeast India and the Indo-Burma region.
This discovery underscores the critical importance of documenting and researching the reptilian fauna in this region, exemplifying Mizoram’s remarkable contribution to global biodiversity.
A new snake species has been discovered in Mizoram during a groundbreaking development. Read on to know more about the discovered species. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
