Hundreds of species new to science discovered in South-East Asia

The Greater Mekong region of Southeast Asia is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the world, where new species continue to be discovered at an alarming rate.

According to a report by environmental charity WWF, 380 species of plants and animals known to science for the first time will be discovered in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam in 2021-2022.

According to WWF’s Mark Wright, the region is biologically diverse for many reasons. “Tropics tend to have more species diversity than other regions,” he says. “But in addition to that, the Mekong region has a huge variety of habitats, including rainforests and mountains over 5,000 meters above sea level. It is one of the largest biodiversity hotspots in the world.”

One of the most fascinating new discoveries to be made in the region is the Cambodian blue-agamum (Carotes Getzi). Males of this species, pictured above, have bright blue heads and both males and females have dark brown spots along their backs.

Lizards can climb up to 10 meters above trees and feed mainly on insects. Older individuals may also change coloration as a defensive mechanism to protect eggs buried in soft soil.

Another fascinating new species, the carp mossy frog (Seroderma carpii), It was discovered during routine fieldwork in northeastern Vietnam. This frog’s skin has irregular bumps and warts that allow it to blend well with tree moss and lichen. “Just looking at that perfect camouflage is a reminder of how extraordinary the natural world is and how effective evolution is as a mechanism for species adaptation,” says Wright. .

The report said the frog is believed to be endangered because its likely habitat is currently unprotected.

a new kind of pitcher plant, Nepentheswas discovered last year in the hills of southern Thailand and was quickly classified as endangered. Pitcher plants are carnivorous plants that form tube or globular traps to catch insects.

“These new discoveries are reminders of nature’s extraordinary diversity and ingenuity, and can provoke childish wonder and delight in all of us,” Wright says. “Sadly, this is a timely reminder of the extreme danger facing many of these species and habitats and the dangers we will lose if urgent and aggressive action is not taken. There is also.”