Trachischium lalremsangai

Trachischium lalremsangai Latest News

Scientists recently discovered a new species of burrowing snake named Trachischium lalremsangai in Mizoram near the India–Myanmar border.

About Trachischium lalremsangai

• It is a new species of burrowing snake.
• It was discovered in Murlen National Park, Mizoram, a biodiversity-rich forest landscape within the Indo–Burma biodiversity hotspot. 
• The species was named after Dr. Lalremsanga in recognition of his remarkable contributions to herpetology (the study of reptiles and amphibians) in India, especially in Northeast India. 
• The snake is distinguished by its smooth iridescent scales; brown body with a white-speckled underside; and a unique arrangement of head scales.

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Key Facts about Murlen National Park 

• It is located in the Champhai district of Mizoram near the Indo-Myanmar border. 
• It lies within the Mizo Hills, part of the Patkai range.
• It ranges from an altitude of 400 meters to 1900 meters above sea level. 
• The climate is subtropical, with heavy rainfall from May to September and mild winters from November to February.  
• Vegetation: It has six different forest types, namely tropical semi-evergreen, subtropical broadleaved, submontane, bamboo, grassland, and cliff vegetation. 
• Flora: 
  • It is home to a variety of plant species, including 35 species of medicinal plants and more than 150 varieties of orchids. 
  • Among others, bamboo brakes, rhododendrons, and unique flowering trees cover vast expanses of the forest. 
• Fauna: 
  • It harbours approximately 15 mammal species, including the Bengal tiger, leopard, Himalayan black bear, and the endangered hoolock gibbon. 
  • Avian life thrives here, with over 150 bird species such as Mrs. Hume’s pheasant (State bird) and the kalij pheasant. 

Source: HUB