What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
What TV doesn't, print can't; we deliver.
A new species of pangolin called the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica). Found in the Indo-Burma region
NEW DELHI: Scientists have made an exciting discovery—a new species of pangolin called the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica). Found in the Indo-Burma region, a hotspot for wildlife, this discovery shows how rich and diverse pangolins are.
Researchers found that this new species separated from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) about 3.4 million years ago due to major climate and environmental changes in the region.
Dr Mukesh Thakur, who led the study at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), explained how modern genetic tools helped uncover this hidden species. “This discovery shows how advanced technology can reveal new species and help us understand the need for conservation,” said Dr. Thakur.
ALSO READ: Ken-Betwa River Linking Project sparks environmental, wildlife concerns
His team analyzed pangolin DNA and found clear differences that confirmed the Indo-Burmese pangolin’s uniqueness. This species is believed to live in parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and possibly Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
Lenrik Konchok Wangmo, a PhD scholar at the University of Calcutta, helped identify specimens of the new species in Arunachal Pradesh. “It’s an honour to be part of such an important discovery,” Wangmo said.
ALSO READ: New wildlife forensic lab in Bengaluru to speed up DNA results
She stressed that this discovery highlights the need to protect pangolins, as they face threats from habitat destruction and illegal hunting.
Pangolins are the most trafficked mammals in the world, and this discovery shows how vulnerable they are. “Finding this species is a reminder of the urgent need for conservation efforts in the region,” added Dr. Thakur.
Dr Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI, praised the team’s work, saying, “This finding is a big step in understanding biodiversity and protecting it. The Indo-Burmese pangolin must be safeguarded to protect the balance of nature in the Indo-Burma region.”
