Pinki BorahNew Gecko Species Coonoor Hills has been officially identified by researchers as Dravidogecko coonoor, discovered in the Nilgiris region of Tamil Nadu. This remarkable finding enhances the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats, which is known as a global hotspot for endemic wildlife. The discovery was published in the scientific journal Bionomina. According to lead author Mr. A. Abinesh, the newly identified gecko was previously mistaken for Hemidactylus anamallensis. Through detailed field surveys, scientists were able to distinguish this species and uncover eight other related species of Dravidogecko, raising the total number in this group to nine.
The gecko was earlier thought to be Hemidactylus anamallensis, but detailed field surveys and DNA studies showed that it is a separate species. This adds to the total number of Dravidogecko species in India, which now stands at nine.
Geckos are small, harmless lizards that can climb walls and are mostly active at night. The new species shows special scale patterns and lives in high-altitude forests of the Nilgiris.
Discovering the new gecko species in Coonoor Hills is important for science and conservation. It helps protect the habitat, supports biodiversity, and improves our understanding of wildlife. This find also reminds us that nature still holds many secrets, and careful study can help us uncover them.
Whether you are a student or an adult, this discovery shows how every creature matters and how important it is to protect our environment.
Understanding Geckos: The Animal Behind the Discovery
To understand the importance of this discovery, it is helpful to know a little about geckos themselves.
- Geckos are small, harmless reptiles that belong to the lizard family.
- They are commonly seen in houses, gardens, and forests.
- Most geckos are active at night (called nocturnal) and feed on insects.
- Unlike many lizards, geckos can make sounds like chirps or clicks.
- Their feet have special pads that allow them to climb smooth surfaces, including walls and ceilings.
There are many different species of geckos around the world, and India is home to several of them. However, identifying a new gecko species in the Coonoor Hills shows that there is still much more to learn.
The Location of the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills
Coonoor Hills in the Nilgiris: A Perfect Habitat
The Coonoor Hills are located in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu, a scenic region covered with forests, tea gardens, and hilly landscapes. This area is part of the Western Ghats, a mountain range stretching across the west coast of India.
The Western Ghats are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are considered one of the eight hottest hotspots of biodiversity in the world. This means they are home to many unique plants and animals that are not found anywhere else on Earth.
The discovery of the new gecko species in the Coonoor Hills proves once again how valuable and rich this natural area truly is.
The Scientific Discovery of the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills
Who Discovered It?
The new gecko species was discovered by a team of Indian scientists and researchers, led by Mr. A. Abinesh, who published their findings in the international journal Bionomina. The research team conducted detailed surveys and field studies in different parts of the Nilgiris.
How Was It Identified?
Initially, the gecko was thought to belong to a previously known species called Hemidactylus anamallensis. However, through close observation and comparison, researchers noticed differences in size, color, scale arrangement, and other body features.
To confirm their observations, they:
- Used morphological studies (studying body structure)
- Conducted DNA analysis
- Examined the gecko’s habitat and behavior
- Compared it with similar species from nearby regions
These combined efforts helped confirm that this was indeed a distinct new gecko species in the Coonoor Hills, which they named Dravidogecko coonoor.
Importance of Discovering the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills
Adds to the Biodiversity of the Western Ghats
With the discovery of Dravidogecko coonoor, the number of known gecko species in the Dravidogecko genus has increased to nine. This discovery adds another unique life form to the growing list of species found only in the Western Ghats.
Helps in Conservation and Habitat Protection
By identifying and naming this species, scientists have taken an important step toward protecting its habitat. Once we know that a unique species lives in a particular area, governments and environmental groups can take better steps to preserve the forest and natural surroundings of that region.
Improves Scientific Knowledge
Correct identification also helps in correcting past mistakes. Since the new gecko was earlier confused with another species, this discovery helps clarify the classification of reptiles in India. It also contributes to global databases of wildlife and supports future research.
Unique Features of the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills
While detailed descriptions are provided in the scientific paper, here are some special features of the newly discovered gecko species:
- It has distinct scale patterns different from other geckos in the region.
- The gecko is adapted to high-altitude environments in the hills.
- It shows unique color markings and body structure.
- It may display special behavioral traits yet to be fully studied.
This shows how each species, no matter how small or hidden, plays a part in the larger ecosystem.
Why the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills Matters to Everyone
For Students
This discovery is a great example of how science is always evolving. It teaches children and students that there is so much to learn about nature, and that even small creatures like geckos can hold big secrets.
For Adults and Conservationists
The discovery is a reminder that human activities should not harm fragile ecosystems. Development, pollution, and deforestation can destroy species even before we know they exist. Recognizing and protecting new species is essential for the health of the environment.
Challenges in Discovering New Species Like the Gecko in Coonoor Hills
Discovering a new species is not easy. Scientists often spend years:
- Walking through forests and hills in tough conditions
- Collecting and comparing physical samples
- Studying detailed photos, videos, and DNA sequences
- Writing and publishing scientific papers
- Gaining approval from scientific journals and experts
This hard work highlights the dedication of researchers and the importance of funding for biological field research.
Conclusion: The Value of the New Gecko Species Coonoor Hills
The discovery of the new gecko species in the Coonoor Hills is not just a scientific success—it is a celebration of India’s natural heritage. It shows that nature still holds many secrets, and with careful study and respect for the environment, we can continue to learn from it.
Whether you are a student learning about animals for the first time or an adult concerned about the planet’s future, this discovery encourages all of us to value and protect the rich ecosystems that surround us.
The Coonoor Hills, with their thick forests and mountain air, have silently guarded this gecko for centuries. Thanks to science, it finally has a name, a place in the world’s records, and, hopefully, a future that is safe and secure.
Neha Baruah
Pinki Borah
Tazrin Jakaria
Asik Syed