Context:

Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) recently discovered a new species of slender gecko in Andhra Pradesh. The species was found in the Tirumala Hill ranges within the Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve of Andhra Pradesh, and it belongs to the genus Hemiphyllodactylus

About the New Gecko Species:

The species has been named Hemiphyllodactylus venkatadri sp. nov, after the sacred Venkatadri Hills (Tirumala). The name is derived from two Sanskrit words— ‘Venkata’ and ‘Adri’ (meaning hill).

·        This new species is genetically distinct from other Hemiphyllodactylus geckos in the region and was described in the journal Herpetozoa.

·        Significance: It is the second Hemiphyllodactylus species found in Andhra Pradesh and is significant for highlighting the biodiversity of the Eastern Ghats region.

Key characteristics:

A unique combination of morphological features, including the number of chin scales and pre-cloacal and femoral pores and small adult body size.

·        Genetic analysis shows a significant divergence from its closest relatives, confirming it is a distinct species.

About Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve:

The Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve is located in the Eastern Ghats of southern Andhra Pradesh, India, and was designated a biosphere reserve in 2010.

·        It is situated in the Seshachalam hill ranges, near the city of Tirupati, and is famous for its rich biodiversity, especially its large reserves of the valuable red sandalwood tree. It is Andhra Pradesh's first biosphere reserve.

Flora

·         Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus)

o    Endemic and economically valuable tree species.

o    Forms extensive forests in the reserve.

o    Known for its rich red timber used in handicrafts, carvings, and traditional medicine.

Fauna

·         Golden Gecko (Calodactylodes aureus)

o    Rare and endemic to the Eastern Ghats.

o    Arboreal species typically found on rocky cliffs and trees.

About Zoological Survey of India (ZSI): 

• • The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) is a premier Indian research institute under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change that surveys, documents, and studies the nation's faunal diversity. 
    •  Headquartered in Kolkata, the ZSI was established in 1916 and works to advance knowledge of animal taxonomy and conservation through exploration, research, and monitoring, with 16 regional centers across India.
    • Its functions include status surveys of threatened species, preparing a Red Data Book, and providing expertise for wildlife forensics and training programs.

Conclusion:

The discovery of Hemiphyllodactylus venkatadri sp. nov is a significant addition to India’s herpetofaunal diversity. It underscores the urgency of systematic surveys, molecular research, and conservation planning in the Eastern Ghats - one of the country's most overlooked but species-rich biogeographic zones.