Scientists Uncover New Cyrtodactylus Species in Mizoram

• 16 Nov 2023

In a groundbreaking discovery, a team of scientists from Mizoram University has identified a novel species of Cyrtodactylus, a genus of geckos, in Vairengte town, located in Mizoram's Kolasib district. This finding not only adds to Mizoram's rich biodiversity but also signifies the twenty-second Cyrtodactylus species discovered in the broader northeast India region.

Key Points

• Molecular Analysis and Morphological Parameters Utilized: The research team employed a combination of molecular analysis and morphological parameters to comprehensively characterize the newly discovered species, officially named Cyrtodactylus vairengtensis.
• Membership in the Indo-Burman Cyrtodactylus khasiensis Clade: Through the analysis of ND2 gene sequences and various morphological features, the scientists identified Cyrtodactylus vairengtensis as a member of the Indo-Burman Cyrtodactylus khasiensis clade.
• This classification was based on factors such as the number of precloacal pores, mid-ventral scale rows, paravertebral tubercles on the trunk, dorsal tubercle rows, subdigital lamellae on pes, and subcaudal scalation.