Hyderabad, Oct.2 : In a significant boost to Telangana’s rich biodiversity, scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Hyderabad, have discovered two new species of gecko (Hemidactylus) in Nalgonda and Warangal districts. The groundbreaking findings were published in the prestigious European science publication, the European Journal of Taxonomy. With these new discoveries, the total number of reptile species endemic exclusively to Telangana state has risen to six.
The first newly identified species, Hemidactylus cairnicola, was discovered in Vardhamani Gudem and Guntu Madugu regions of Nalgonda district. Measuring up to a maximum length of 49 mm, this nocturnal gecko possesses dark spots on its back and a unique skin coloration that allows it to camouflage seamlessly against dark basalt rocks. Scientists named it cairnicola due to its natural habit of dwelling within rock piles (cairns).
The second species, Hemidactylus koyaorum, was identified around the Pakhal Wildlife Sanctuary in Warangal district. Growing up to a maximum length of 55.6 mm, this lizard features a distinct grey body adorned with four unique flower-shaped white spots. Researchers named the species koyaorum to honor the local Koya indigenous tribal community, recognizing their vital role in preserving and protecting the surrounding forests and hills.
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