Maharashtra: New Species Of ‘Golden-Eyed’ Frog Discovered In India’s Western Ghats
Maharashtra: New Species Of 'Golden-Eyed' Frog Discovered In India’s Western Ghats
Scientists have discovered a new species of frog in Mahabaleshwar, a town in western India’s biodiversity-rich Western Ghats. The species, named Minervarya ghatiborealis, or the Mahabaleshwar cricket frog, was first spotted in June 2016 when researchers noticed unfamiliar-looking frogs near a grassy parking area at the edge of town.
The newly identified species is considered “large” for its kind, reaching about 2.5 inches in length. It has a robust body, thin fingers, long legs, and distinctive golden-yellow eyes that are darker at the edges and lighter in the center. The frog’s coloration varies from blotchy brown to orange, with pale cream bellies and yellow-tinted sides.
A Mystery Unfolds
The discovery raises an intriguing question: How has this species remained unnoticed since amphibian research began in India in 1799? Study co-author K.P. Dinesh called it “a mystery”, emphasizing the importance of continued research in well-explored regions.
The Mahabaleshwar cricket frog was found at an elevation of about 4,500 feet during the early monsoon season. Males were observed calling near puddles in residential areas, and pairs were seen mating. Researchers described the species’ call as “somewhat lengthy” with clearly pulsed notes.
Scientific Significance
Co-author Omkar Yadav highlighted the discovery’s importance, stating, “It’s a testament to the incredible diversity that still exists in our natural world, often in places we think we know well.”
DNA analysis confirmed that the new species had at least 6% genetic divergence from its closest relatives. The name “ghatiborealis” comes from the Sanskrit word “ghati” (mountain pass) and the Latin word “borealis” (northern), referring to the frog’s habitat in the Northern Western Ghats.
So far, the Mahabaleshwar cricket frog has only been found in this specific region, making its conservation a priority for researchers.
