Scientists have identified a previously unrecognized salamander species, Tylototriton zaimeng, in Manipur’s Zaimeng Lake. Initially mistaken for closely related species T. himalayanus and T. verrucosus, genetic analysis unveiled its distinctiveness. T. zaimeng is a medium-sized salamander with a massive head, short limbs, and unique features like a vertebral ridge and organized vomerine teeth. It displays brown coloration adorned with dull orange to yellowish-brown markings. The lake, located atop Khongtheng mountain ranges, is appropriately named “Zaimeng” in the Liangmai Naga dialect, meaning “puzzle” or “mystery.”
Prelims pointer
- Phylogenetic Analysis: A technique that determines evolutionary relationships among species based on genetic data. It unveiled Tylototriton zaimeng’s distinct status as a sister species to T. panwaensis and T. houi found in Myanmar and China.
- Sister Species: Species closely related in evolutionary terms, sharing a common ancestor relatively recently.
- Supratemporal Bony Ridges: Bony structures on the head that provide structural support and could also have a role in sensory functions.
- Vomerine Teeth: Teeth found on the vomer bone in the roof of the mouth. Their organization and shape can be diagnostic for species identification.
- Khongtheng Mountain Ranges: The location of Zaimeng Lake in Manipur, India. The lake’s name, meaning “puzzle” or “mystery,” aligns with the discovery of the new salamander species.