‘Cyrtodactylus raimonaensis’ discovery in Kokrajhar highlights the ecological richness of the Eastern Himalayan foothills
Guwahati: Assam’s rich natural landscape has yielded another remarkable find, with scientists documenting a previously unknown species of bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus raimonaensis in the forests of Kokrajhar district. The discovery adds to growing evidence that the region remains a vital yet underexplored hub of biodiversity.
The species, named after the national park, belongs to the diverse Cyrtodactylus genus, widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia. Scientists noted that the gecko exhibits unique physical characteristics that distinguish it from known species, marking it as a notable addition to the country’s reptile fauna.
The discovery site lies within the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot, a region globally recognised for its exceptional yet underexplored ecological wealth. Experts say the dense forest cover and varied habitats around Raimona create ideal conditions for rare species to thrive.
Highlighting the importance of the find, a researcher involved in the study said, “This discovery reflects how much remains undocumented in this landscape. Raimona is steadily emerging as a region of immense scientific interest.”
Reacting to the development, Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma described it as “a remarkable discovery from Assam,” adding, “We will continue to protect these habitats and support scientific research to preserve our natural heritage for future generations.”
Declared a national park in 2021, Raimona has increasingly drawn attention for its rich biodiversity. Experts believe continued exploration in such regions could reveal many more undocumented species while reinforcing the need for sustained conservation efforts in Northeast India.
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