Dicharax tilariensis: Scientists Discover Tiny New Snail Species in Western Ghats

Researchers have discovered Dicharax tilariensis, a new microscopic land snail species in the Tilari region of Maharashtra's Kolhapur district. Found in semi-evergreen forests at elevations of 700–800 metres, the snail has a distinctive ribbed shell measuring less than 5 mm across. The discovery marks the second endemic species of the genus Dicharax described from the northern Western Ghats, highlighting the region's rich but understudied biodiversity.

Dicharax tilariensis
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Dicharax tilariensis 

Researchers recently identified a new species of microscopic land snail named Dicharax tilariensis in Kolhapur’s Tilari region.

About Dicharax tilariensis

  • It is a new species of microscopic land snail.
  • It was discovered in the Tilari region in the Kolhapur district of Maharashtra.  
  • It is currently known only from its discovery site near Swapnavel Point at an elevation of 700-800 metres above sea level, making it endemic to the area.
  • The species inhabits the region’s semi-evergreen forests and is known to occupy microhabitats among forest litter, decaying organic matter, and moist soil. 
  • It is the second endemic species of its genus described from the northern Western Ghats.  
  • The snail features a whitish shell with a pinkish or brownish tinge, measuring 4.21-4.87 mm in width and 3.01-3.52 mm in height.   
  • It has an elevated spire, distinctive rib patterns, and a sharp swelling on the shell.

News: TOI

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Dicharax tilariensis FAQs

Q1. What is Dicharax tilariensis?+

Q2. Where was Dicharax tilariensis discovered?+

Q3. Which type of forest serves as the habitat of Dicharax tilariensis?+

Q4. What is the shell colour of Dicharax tilariensis? -+

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