By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, Nov 23: A groundbreaking study by Indian and international scientists has led to the discovery of new frog species in Garo Hills, showcasing the region’s rich amphibian biodiversity within the Indo-Burma hotspot, one of the world’s most significant ecological regions.
The scientists have also rediscovered two elusive frog species, viz. Raorchestes garo and Raorchestes kempiae.
The research, published in Herpetozoa, highlights the crucial role of community reserves in biodiversity conservation.
The rediscovered species, Raorchestes garo (previously Ixalus garo) and Raorchestes kempiae (formerly Ixalus kempiae), were first described by British zoologist George Boulenger in 1919. Due to limited historical records, their existence had remained uncertain for over a century.
The study also introduced a newly identified species, Raorchestes asakgrensis, enriching the amphibian diversity of northeast India.
Raorchestes garo was found in the Daribokgre Community Reserve, while Raorchestes kempiae was located in the Mikadogre Community Reserve.
Fieldwork conducted from 2020 to 2022 across the Garo and Khasi Hills employed nocturnal methods, relying on frog calls to locate them. Detailed morphological and molecular analyses confirmed their identity, leading to their reclassification under the genus Raorchestes.
The rediscovery of Raorchestes garo is particularly remarkable. Found at elevations above 800 metres, it is distinguished by its visible tympanum and vivid orange-hued hind limbs.
On the other hand, Raorchestes kempiae, discovered at elevations between 100 and 1,200 metres, features a concealed tympanum and yellow-spotted ventral colouring.
Meanwhile, the newly described Raorchestes asakgrensis, named after the Eman Asakgre Community Reserve, exhibits unique features, including an obtusely pointed snout, visible tympanum, and pale cream-coloured ventral surface.
Found perched on bushes at dusk, molecular studies revealed its genetic ties to Raorchestes shillongensis and Raorchestes garo, albeit it showed significant divergence.
The study emphasised the importance of combining genetic, morphological and ecological methods to understand biodiversity, bridging critical gaps in knowledge about northeastern India’s amphibians.
While Raorchestes kempiae has a broad range extending into parts of India and China, Raorchestes garo is confined to a small 11.46 sq km area, raising concerns about its potentially vulnerable status.
Meanwhile, the researchers have called for a reassessment of its conservation status and further exploration of its habitat.
It may be mentioned that the research, funded by the National Mission on Himalayan Studies and the Stiftung Artenschutz Amphibian Conservation Fund, highlights the pivotal role of community reserves and local participation in biodiversity preservation.