National Current Affairs
Discovery Of A Rare Caecilian From Northern Western Ghats Of Maharashtra
- 21 Jan 2026
- 2 min read
Why in News?
Scientists announced the discovery of a new species of blind caecilian, named Gegeneophis valmiki, from the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra. This discovery is the first for its genus in over a decade.
Key Points:
- Location: The species was first collected in 2017 on the Valmiki Plateau in the Satara district of Maharashtra.
- Etymology: It is named after the historic Maharshi Valmiki Mandir located near the discovery site reflecting the tradition of linking species nomenclature with geographic or cultural landmarks.
- Research Team: Led by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), the discovery involved researchers from Savitribai Phule Pune University, Balasaheb Desai College, and the Mhadei Research Centre.
- Appearance: Like other caecilians, Gegeneophis valmiki is a limbless, worm-like amphibian.
- Fossorial Nature: It is a subterranean (underground) dweller with eyes hidden beneath bone, earning it the common name "blind caecilian".
- Ecological Role: These animals are beneficial to agricultural ecosystems as their burrowing aerates the soil and enhances its structure while they feed on soil invertebrates.
- Significance:The Western Ghats, recognised as a global biodiversity hotspot, harbour many endemic amphibian species.
- Globally, about 41% of amphibian species are threatened with extinction, making new species identification critical for conservation action.
| Read more: Zoological Survey of India,Western Ghats |
