Shillong, Nov 20: Meghalaya’s biodiversity has gained global recognition with the discovery of a new frog species, Raorchestes asakgrensis, in the Eman Asakgre Community Reserve. The species, named to honor the local community’s support in conservation efforts, underscores the critical role of community reserves in preserving the region’s unique biodiversity.

“The species is named after the Eman Asakgre Community Reserve, honoring the local community’s support during the research and emphasizing the importance of community participation in biodiversity conservation,” said the researchers in their paper published in the journal Herpetozoa.

The team of scientists—R. S. Naveen, S. R. Chandramouli, S. Babu, A. M. Ryndongsngi, P. V. Karunakaran, and Honnavalli N. Kumara—conducted extensive field surveys in the Garo and Khasi Hills between 2020 and 2022. Their efforts also led to the rediscovery of two frog species, Raorchestes garo and Raorchestes kempiae, last described over a century ago in 1919 by George Boulenger.

The Newly Discovered Raorchestes asakgrensis

Found at an elevation of 174 meters in Eman Asakgre, this small arboreal frog is distinctive for its pointed snout and visible tympanum. Males measure about 20.49 mm in snout-vent length, with females slightly larger at 22.8 mm. Males call from shrubs at dusk, perched 1.5 meters or higher, with calling activity peaking after the first monsoon rains.

 Rediscovered After a Century

Raorchestes garo: Rediscovered in Daribokgre Community Reserve at elevations above 800 meters, this species is notable for its orange-hued hind limbs and externally visible tympanum.

Raorchestes kempiae: Found in Mikadogre Community Reserve across elevations ranging from 100 to 1,200 meters, it is characterized by its concealed tympanum and yellow-spotted ventral color.

Conservation and Significance

This study, supported by the National Mission on Himalayan Studies and the Stiftung Artenschutz Amphibian Conservation Fund, highlights the crucial role of community reserves in safeguarding biodiversity. It also underscores the indispensable support of local communities in conserving fragile ecosystems.

With such remarkable discoveries, Meghalaya continues to affirm its position as a biodiversity hotspot, fostering hope for further conservation achievements in the region.

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