ZSI discovered New Species: Indo-Burmese Pangolin….

Staff Reporter : Kolkata, 9th January, 2025: In a significant advancement in pangolin research, scientists of Zoological Survey of India have identified a new species, the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indoburmanica). This discovery sheds light on the evolutionary diversity of pangolins, revealing that this species diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago. The species’ development was likely influenced by dramatic geo-climatic changes in the Indo-Burma region, which is recognized as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots.
The study, led by Dr. Mukesh Thakur of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), used cutting-edge genomic tools to analyze mitochondrial genomes. “This discovery is a testament to the power of modern genetic tools in uncovering hidden diversity,” said Dr. Thakur. “The Indo-Burmese pangolin not only enriches our understanding of Asian pangolins but also emphasizes the need for region-specific conservation efforts.”
A key contributor to this research was Lenrik Konchok Wangmo, a PhD scholar at the University of Calcutta. Wangmo played a vital role in identifying the holotype and paratype specimens from Arunachal Pradesh. “It is a privilege to contribute to such an important discovery,” Wangmo said. “This species adds a new dimension to pangolin conservation, highlighting the importance of protecting their habitats from threats like poaching and habitat degradation.”
Key Findings
Genetic analyses confirmed that the Indo-Burmese pangolin diverged from the Chinese pangolin around 3.4 million years ago. A significant genetic distance of 0.038 and a barcode gap of 3.8% reinforced its status as a distinct species.
The species is believed to have evolved in isolation during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, influenced by climatic and geological shifts.
Its current distribution spans parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and possibly extends to Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
Conservation Imperatives
The discovery of the Indo-Burmese pangolin underscores the urgent need to prioritize pangolin conservation. “Pangolins are among the most heavily trafficked mammals globally,” said Dr. Thakur, scientist, ZSI. “Recognizing this species as distinct highlights its vulnerability and the pressing need for collaborative conservation measures across its range.”
Dr. Dhriti Banerjee, Director of ZSI, lauded the team’s efforts, stating, “This remarkable finding demonstrates the critical role of scientific research in uncovering biodiversity and informing conservation action. Protecting the Indo-Burmese pangolin is essential to safeguarding the ecological integrity of the Indo-Burma region.”
This discovery not only contributes to the scientific understanding of pangolins but also emphasizes the need for targeted conservation strategies. It calls for collaborative efforts by local communities, conservation organizations, and policymakers to ensure the survival of this newly identified species in the face of ongoing threats.