New Blind Caecilian Species Discovered in Western Ghats

Indian scientists have discovered a rare subterranean amphibian species in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra, adding a significant finding to India’s biodiversity record. The species, named “Gegeneophis valmiki”, was identified by a multi-institutional research team led by the Zoological Survey of India and the findings have been published in the international journal “Phyllomedusa”.

Discovery in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats

The species was first collected in 2017 during faunal surveys on the Valmiki Plateau in Satara district of Maharashtra. The region forms part of the Western Ghats, a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot. The discovery highlights the ecological richness of lesser-studied plateau ecosystems in the northern stretches of the mountain range.

Unique Features of Gegeneophis valmiki

“Gegeneophis valmiki” belongs to the genus “Gegeneophis”, commonly known as blind caecilians. These amphibians spend most of their lives underground, making them extremely difficult to study. They have reduced eyes hidden beneath bone and a worm-like appearance, which often leads to them being mistaken for earthworms. Their fossorial lifestyle explains why many species remain undocumented for long periods.

Naming and Scientific Significance

The new species has been named after the historic Maharshi Valmiki Mandir located near the discovery site. According to K P Dinesh, senior scientist at ZSI, documenting such elusive animals requires long-term field surveys and specialised taxonomic expertise. The finding strengthens India’s contribution to global amphibian taxonomy and underlines the importance of systematic biodiversity surveys.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• The Western Ghats are a UNESCO-listed global biodiversity hotspot.
• Caecilians are limbless amphibians adapted to underground life.
• Zoological Survey of India is India’s apex body for faunal research.
• Nearly 41 per cent of global amphibian species are threatened with extinction.

Conservation Concerns and Urgency

ZSI Director Dhriti Banerjee stressed that many amphibian species face the risk of disappearing before they are scientifically described. With amphibians among the most threatened vertebrate groups globally, timely identification and documentation are crucial to prevent what scientists term “silent extinctions”. The discovery of “Gegeneophis valmiki” reinforces the need for intensified research and conservation focus on India’s lesser-known ecosystems.