Three New Frog Species Found in Arunachal Pradesh

As a part of latest current affairs that took place, scientists have uncovered three new frog species in Arunachal Pradesh’s Namdapha-Kamlang protected area along the Myanmar border. These discoveries highlight the importance of exploring diverse habitats.

Key Discoveries:

1. Gracixalus patkaiensis: A see-through green tree frog with a jelly-like appearance and a call resembling an insect.
2. Alcalus fontinalis: A tiny brown frog found in fast-flowing hill streams, known for its unique trickling vocalization.
3. Nidirana noadihing: A marsh-dwelling “music frog” named after the Noa-Dihing river.

Habitat-Inspired Names:

These frogs are named after local hill ranges, water bodies, and specific ecological pockets they inhabit. Conservationists believe such names can encourage local biodiversity ownership and community involvement in protecting these new species.

Biodiversity Hotspot:

Namdapha National Park and Kamlang Tiger Reserve, situated between India and Myanmar, serve as a crucial biodiversity hotspot. The area features a unique mix of Eastern Himalayan and Southeast Asian biodiversity, ranging from low tropical forests to high Himalaya-like mountains.

Conservation Concerns:

The recent discoveries bring India’s documented amphibian species to approximately 470. However, over 100 more species are estimated to await discovery, particularly in vulnerable habitats like the Western Ghats. The region faces threats from human activities, raising concerns about the conservation of these newly found species.

Other Rare Species In India That You Must Know

India is home to a rich and diverse array of rare and unique species, showcasing the country’s extraordinary biodiversity. Here are some notable examples of rare species found in India:

Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris):

The Bengal tiger, India’s national animal, is a rare and endangered species primarily found in the Sundarbans mangrove forests and various national parks. Conservation efforts aim to protect and increase their dwindling population.

Indian Rhino (Rhinoceros unicornis):

The Indian rhinoceros, also known as the one-horned rhino, is found in the northeastern region of India, particularly in Kaziranga National Park. It is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching.

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia):

The elusive snow leopard inhabits the high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Ladakh and Himachal Pradesh. Its solitary nature and remote habitat make it a rare and endangered species.

Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus):

The gharial, a critically endangered crocodile species, is native to the Indian subcontinent. It is characterized by its long, thin snout and is primarily found in the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems.

Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo persica):

The Asiatic lion, a subspecies of lion, is found in the Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat. It is critically endangered, with conservation efforts focused on its protection and potential reintroduction to other areas.

Purple Frog (Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis):

Endemic to the Western Ghats, the purple frog is a unique and rare species known for its distinctive appearance. It spends most of its life underground and is considered an indicator of the health of the Western Ghats ecosystem.

Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus):

The lion-tailed macaque, found in the Western Ghats, is a rare and endangered primate species known for its distinctive lion-like mane. Habitat destruction and fragmentation pose significant threats to its survival.

Great Indian Bustard (Ardeotis nigriceps):

The great Indian bustard is a critically endangered bird species found in the grasslands of India. Habitat loss, hunting, and collisions with power lines are major threats to its population.

Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens):

The red panda, although more commonly associated with Himalayan countries, is found in the eastern Himalayas in India. It is listed as vulnerable due to habitat loss and poaching.

Namdapha Flying Squirrel (Biswamoyopterus biswasi):

This rare flying squirrel is found in the Namdapha National Park in Arunachal Pradesh. It was discovered recently, highlighting the ongoing discoveries of new and rare species in India.

Preserving and protecting these rare species is crucial for maintaining the country’s ecological balance and biodiversity. Conservation initiatives and awareness efforts play a vital role in ensuring the survival of these remarkable creatures.