New Gecko Species Discovered in Mizoram

November 15, 2023

Researchers have recently identified a new species of gecko in India, specifically in the town of Vairengte in Mizoram. Named ‘Cyrtodactylus vairengtensis’ after its place of discovery, this gecko species is characterized by distinct features, particularly the number of femoral pores, setting it apart from other members of the Cyrtodactylus family. The common name proposed for this newfound species is the ‘Vairengte bent-toed gecko.’

Key Findings

Species Diversity: With a global count of 335 gecko species, India is home to 42 of them, showcasing its rich biodiversity.
Discovery Location: The new species was found in proximity to human habitation in Vairengte, located in the Kolasib district of Mizoram.
Specimens Studied: A total of six specimens, consisting of three males and three females, were collected in June the previous year for detailed study.
Morphological Features: The Vairengte bent-toed gecko is considered a moderate-sized gecko, with adult individuals measuring between 57.6mm and 73.6mm.
Unique Feature: One of the distinctive features of this new species is the number of femoral pores found on the underside of the hind legs. These femoral pores secrete a mixture of lipids and proteins, likely used for attracting mates and marking territories.
Precloacal Pores: The researchers identified 9-11 precloacal (femoral) pores in males and 5-9 precloacal pits in females among the collected specimens.

Conservation Status

Due to the limited available information about this newly discovered gecko species, including its distribution range, food preferences, breeding behavior, population status, and potential threats, the researchers suggest categorizing it as ‘data deficient’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Further extensive surveys are recommended to gather additional data and support knowledge-based conservation strategies for this little-known gecko species.

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