Shillong: Researchers have discovered a new species of toad in the sacred groves of Mawphlang, East Khasi Hills. Named Duttaphrynus dhara, the creature honors the traditional Khasi female attire. The discovery occurred during field surveys at an elevation of 1,854 metres, where the toads were found living among leaf litter and low vegetation near the forest edge.
The toad is small, with adult males measuring approximately 40 to 41.8 millimetres. Its appearance includes a brown body with black patches, a thin line along the back, and a creamy belly marked with dark blotches. Unlike common Asian toads found near humans, this species prefers the quiet, wild habitats of the hills.
A research team led by Holiness Warjri, Madhurima Das, A.A. Thasun Amarasinghe, and Jayaditya Purkayastha confirmed the discovery using genetic analysis and morphological studies. Their findings, published in the journal Taprobanica, indicate a distinct genetic lineage that differs from related species like Duttaphrynus stuarti and Duttaphrynus chandai.
Currently, the toad is only known to exist in the Mawphlang region. This limited distribution emphasizes the need to protect the fragile ecosystems of Meghalaya, which remains a vital centre for amphibian diversity. The naming of the species reflects the enduring connection between Khasi culture and the natural landscape of Northeast India.
Comments