• Researchers have discovered a new bent-toed gecko species in Tripura, highlighting the rich biodiversity of Northeast India.

Key Highlights

• The new species is named Cyrtodactylus jayadityai, after noted herpetologist Jayaditya Purkayastha.
• The discovery has been published in the European Journal of Taxonomy, a peer-reviewed scientific journal.
• The study was conducted using specimens collected from Tripura and Meghalaya (2024–2025).

About the Species

• It belongs to the genus Cyrtodactylus (bent-toed geckos), widely distributed across Asia.
• Identified using an integrative taxonomic approach, including:
  • Morphological analysis
  • Statistical comparison
  • Molecular (DNA-based) study
• It shows genetic divergence of 4.7–5.2% from its closest relative, Cyrtodactylus tripuraensis, confirming it as a distinct species.

Important Terms Explained

• Herpetofauna: It refers to reptiles and amphibians found in a region.
• Taxonomy: It is the scientific classification of organisms based on shared characteristics.
• Genetic Divergence: It means differences in DNA indicating evolution into separate species.
• Molecular Analysis: It uses DNA data to identify and classify species accurately.

Exam Hook

Prelims Question:
Which of the following correctly describes the genus Cyrtodactylus?
(a) Amphibians found in freshwater ecosystems
(b) Bent-toed geckos distributed across Asia
(c) Marine reptiles found in coastal regions
(d) Flightless birds of tropical forests

One-line wrap: The discovery of Cyrtodactylus jayadityai highlights Northeast India’s rich but fragile biodiversity and the urgent need for conservation.

Source