Kerala Leads India’s New Faunal Discoveries in 2024
The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) reported an unprecedented surge in faunal discoveries in 2024. Kerala emerged as the top state with the highest number of new species and records. This marks milestone in India’s biodiversity documentation efforts amid growing environmental challenges.
Record Number of Species Discovered
In 2024, ZSI documented 683 new species and subspecies across India. This is the highest annual total since formal records began in 2008. Of these, 459 species are globally new, while 224 are new records for India. The total number of species catalogued by ZSI since 1916 now stands at 105,244. Recent years have seen a steady rise in discoveries, with 662 species in 2022 and 641 in 2023.
Kerala and Southern India at the Forefront
Kerala led with 101 new species discoveries, including 80 globally new species. Karnataka, Arunachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal followed. The southern region of India accounted for the majority of findings. Northern states and union territories like Chandigarh and Delhi reported fewer species. This marks the rich biodiversity and effective research networks in southern India.
Advanced Techniques and Systematic Research
ZSI credits its success to systematic taxonomy and modern molecular methods. The use of DNA analysis and advanced field surveys has accelerated species identification. The institution plans to increase taxonomic expertise and collaborate internationally. Specialised teams will focus on underexplored groups to further enhance biodiversity knowledge.
Focus on Himalayas and Marine Ecosystems
The 2025 Animal Taxonomy Summit emphasised the need for vulnerability assessments in the eastern Himalayas and northeast India. Conservation strategies must address endemic species at risk from habitat loss and climate change. Marine biodiversity also received attention, with proposals for a National Repository for marine species and a new ZSI centre in Lakshadweep to protect fragile reef ecosystems.
Policy Recommendations for Conservation
Experts recommended integrated biodiversity surveillance systems combining taxonomy, genetics, and community data. A centralised digital platform and stakeholder grid are proposed for rapid response to invasive pests. Infrastructure development must include wildlife-friendly designs like underpasses and arboreal bridges to maintain habitat connectivity and reduce animal fatalities.
Notable Discoveries and Symbolic Naming
Among new species is a snake from Himachal Pradesh named Anguiculus dicaprioi. It honours Leonardo DiCaprio for his environmental activism. Such symbolic naming raises awareness about biodiversity loss and climate change. It reflects the growing role of science in linking conservation with public engagement.
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