New Reed Snake Species Calamaria mizoramensis Discovered in Mizoram

Description

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Scientists have reported the discovery of a previously unknown species of reed snake in Mizoram, drawing attention to the vast but insufficiently studied wildlife of India’s northeastern hills. The non-venomous reptile has been named Calamaria mizoramensis, in recognition of the state where it was identified. The finding strengthens India’s record of endemic reptile species and emphasises the ecological value of forested hill ecosystems in the region.

Research and Publication Details

The discovery was made by a research team led by Prof. H. T. Lalremsanga of Mizoram University, along with Malsawmdawngliana Fanai and international collaborators from Russia, Germany, and Vietnam. Their study was published on January 5, 2026, in the scientific journal Zootaxa. The species belongs to the genus Calamaria, which currently includes 69 known species worldwide.

Identification Process

The snake was first observed in 2008 on the Mizoram University campus and later at several other locations across the state. For many years, it was assumed to be part of a widely distributed Southeast Asian species due to minimal visible differences. However, long-term genetic analysis of collected specimens revealed more than 15 percent genetic divergence from its closest relatives, confirming its status as a distinct species.

Ecology and Distribution

Calamaria mizoramensis is a nocturnal, ground-dwelling snake adapted to moist, forested hill environments. It has been recorded at elevations between 670 and 1,295 metres above sea level and has even been found near inhabited areas, including educational campuses. Although confirmed only in Mizoram so far, researchers suggest the species may also occur in nearby regions such as Manipur, Nagaland, Assam, and Bangladesh’s Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Biodiversity Significance

The study also updated the state’s herpetofaunal inventory, recording 169 species in total—52 amphibians and 117 reptiles. These findings further establish Mizoram as a key biodiversity hotspot and highlight the need for sustained research and conservation measures to protect its fragile hill ecosystems.

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