Assam’s Rocky Hills Reveal a New Lizard Species in Major Scientific Discovery

Researchers from Mizoram University have discovered a previously undocumented gecko species in the rocky landscapes of Umrangso in Assam’s Dima Hasao district, adding a new member to the region’s rich biodiversity and highlighting the ecological importance of its lesser-explored habitats.

Named Cyrtodactylus diamensis, the newly identified reptile belongs to the gecko genus Cyrtodactylus. The discovery was announced by Assam Forest and Climate Change Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah on Thursday, who described it as an important contribution to understanding the wildlife diversity of the Northeast.

The findings have been published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, bringing scientific attention to the specialised reptiles inhabiting the rocky terrain of Dima Hasao.

The study was conducted by four Mizoram University researchers - Krijotiya Thaochen, Mathipi Vabeirureilai, Mara Duaa Hlychho and Hmar Flawte. Their research involved examining specimens collected during field visits in August 2025 and July 2026, with seven nights of fieldwork in and around Umrangso.

The team studied the geckos’ physical characteristics, genetic composition and the specific microhabitats in which they were found. By combining morphological examination with genetic analysis, the researchers established that the specimens belonged to a distinct species.

The newly identified gecko is closely related to Cyrtodactylus arunachalensis, another species found in the Northeast, but has distinct genetic and physical characteristics that set it apart.