Cnemaspis Brahmaputra

A new species of gecko has been discovered in Assam, and it has been named Cnemaspis brahmaputra, after the Brahmaputra River.

Key Details about Cnemaspis Brahmaputra:

1. Geographical Location:

   • The new species was found at Dirgheswari Temple in Assam, on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River.

2. Taxonomy:

   • This species belongs to the Cnemaspis podihuna clade, a group of small, diurnal geckos. These geckos were previously believed to be mainly confined to Sri Lanka.

   • The discovery in Assam reinforces the idea of an ancient biogeographic link between Sri Lanka and India’s northeast, suggesting that there may have been historical faunal exchanges across the Indian subcontinent.

3. Genetic and Morphological Distinctiveness:

   • The Cnemaspis brahmaputra is genetically and morphologically distinct from its Sri Lankan relatives, showing significant evolutionary divergence.

   • This species has a larger body size, fewer mid-body scale rows, more ventral scale rows across the belly, and no tubercles on its lower flanks.

   • It also has three enlarged rows of thigh scales, which run parallel to the enlarged femoral scale row.

4. Historical Context:

   • This is the second species of Cnemaspis to be identified in the northeastern region of India. The first was Cnemaspis assamensis, described in the year 2000.

   • Both species belong to the podihuna clade and are restricted to the Brahmaputra River valley. They are located on opposite banks of the river and show significant genetic differences.

5. Significance of the Discovery:

   • The discovery of Cnemaspis brahmaputra adds to the understanding of the biodiversity of the northeastern region of India, a highly rich and diverse part of the country.

   • The finding strengthens the idea of an ancient link between India and Sri Lanka, with possible historical exchanges of fauna.

   • The species' distinct evolutionary traits make it a valuable subject for further genetic and ecological studies.

Conclusion:

The naming of Cnemaspis brahmaputra after the Brahmaputra River emphasizes the ecological and historical significance of the area, and it represents an important addition to the scientific understanding of India's biodiversity.