Discovery of New Frog Species in Maharashtra
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| News Summary | Researchers in Maharashtra discovered a new frog species, Minervarya ghatiborealis, at Mahabaleshwar. The species, part of the Cricket frog genus, has unique features and calls. Its discovery highlights the biodiversity of the Western Ghats, emphasizing the need for conservation. |
| Discovery Details | - Species Name: Minervarya ghatiborealis |
| - Location: Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra | |
| - Published In: International journal Zootaxa | |
| Etymology | Combines Sanskrit word 'Ghati' (Western) and Latin word 'Borealis' (Northern), meaning 'from the north-western Ghats'. |
| Distinctive Features | - Parallel lines on abdomens |
| - Nest near standing water or small springs | |
| - Calls resemble nightingale sounds | |
| - Male frogs produce distinct breeding calls | |
| Conservation | - Mahabaleshwar Plateau recognized as a key area for endemic species |
| - Need for enhanced conservation efforts in the Western Ghats emphasized | |
| Western Ghats | - Location: Runs parallel to the western coast of India, from Gujarat to Tamil Nadu |
| - States Covered: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala | |
| - Significance: UNESCO World Heritage Site, influences Indian monsoon weather patterns, home to tropical evergreen forests and 325 globally threatened species. | |
| - Features: High biodiversity, endemism, and dominant plateau landscapes |