Cnemaspis Brahmaputra

 Cnemaspis Brahmaputra : Recently, in a remarkable zoological discovery, researchers identified a new species of gecko—Cnemaspis brahmaputra—from the riverbanks of Assam, India.

o The species was discovered near the Dirgheswari Temple, located on the northern bank of the Brahmaputra River.

• About Cnemaspis Brahmaputra : Belongs to the Cnemaspis podihuna clade, a group of small, diurnal geckos previously thought to be mostly restricted to Sri Lanka.

o Its presence in Assam points to an ancient biogeographic link between Sri Lanka and Northeast India, highlighting historical faunal exchange across the subcontinent.

o Distinctive Evolutionary Traits: The species is genetically and morphologically distinct from its Sri Lankan relatives, indicating significant evolutionary divergence.

ü Strengthens the understanding of regional endemism and evolutionary history in the Brahmaputra valley.

o Unique Features : Larger body size compared to related species.

ü Fewer mid-body scale rows but more ventral scale rows across the belly.

ü No tubercles on the lower flanks.

ü Presence of three enlarged rows of thigh scales, aligned parallel to the enlarged femoral scale row.

• Ecological Significance : This is only the second known species of the genus Cnemaspis from Northeast India.

o The first species, Cnemaspis assamensis, was described in 2000.

o Both species are part of the podihuna clade and are restricted to the Brahmaputra River valley.

o Interestingly, the two species occur on opposite banks of the river and show significant genetic differences, emphasizing localized speciation.