The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) released the Animal Discoveries 2024 report. Kerala topped the list with the highest number of new animal and plant species recorded in the country.
Key Highlights of the Report
- In 2024, 683 new faunal species and subspecies were discovered in India (compared to 641 in 2023).
- Out of these, 459 were new to science, while 224 were recorded for the first time in India.
- Kerala led with 101 species, followed by Karnataka (82), Arunachal Pradesh (72), and Tamil Nadu (63).
- Andaman & Nicobar Islands recorded 43 faunal entries, including 14 new species and 29 new records.
Notable Discoveries
- A new snake species from Himachal Pradesh was named Anguiculus dicaprioi after actor Leonardo DiCaprio.
- Other findings included 37 reptiles, 5 amphibians, and 2 new genera.
- The Botanical Survey of India (BSI) listed 433 new plant taxa, with Kerala contributing 58 plant discoveries.
Why Kerala Leads
- Diverse habitats like Western Ghats, rainforests, and wetlands provide ideal research conditions.
- Use of DNA barcoding, regular field surveys, and scientific taxonomy supported discovery efforts.
India’s Biodiversity Hotspots
- India hosts four global hotspots: Himalayas, Indo-Burma, Western Ghats, Sundaland
- These areas are rich in unique species, vital for climate control, water conservation, and local livelihoods.
Major Threats
- Deforestation, habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change.
- Mining and infrastructure projects also impact fragile ecosystems.
Conservation Efforts
- Protected areas like national parks and reserves.
- Laws like the Wildlife Protection Act (1972) and Biological Diversity Act (2002).
- Participation in global biodiversity pacts and promotion of community-based protection models.
