Abour new Species:
- The first ever sighting of this gecko and the new species has been named as Hemidactyluspakkamalaiensis, after the hill where it was recorded.
- It belongs to the genus Hemidactylus and it is havinglarge-body size (101–109 mm).
- The new species is closely related to graniticolus from which it can be distinguished by its lower femoral pores count.
About Pakkamalai hills:
- It is located in Villupuram district of Tamilnadu near Gingee.
- It is a biodiversity-rich area and has large mammals including leopards and sloth bears.
- It is an ecologically important area in the Eastern Ghats.
Q1) What are the benefits of rich biodiversity?
Biodiversity supports human and societal needs, including food and nutrition security, energy, development of medicines and pharmaceuticals and freshwater, which together underpin good health.
Source: New species of gecko recorded in Pakkamalai Hills in Villupuram district
Last updated on Oct, 2026
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