Discovery in the Western Ghats
New Crab Discoveries in Kerala’s Western Ghats: Scientists from the University of Kerala and the National University of Singapore have identified a new genus and two new species of freshwater crabs in the Kerala region of the Western Ghats. The discoveries underscore the region’s high endemism and ecological significance.
Static GK fact: The Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the eight “hottest hotspots” of biological diversity in the world.
Naming and Significance
The new genus has been named Kasargodia, with the species Kasargodia sheebae and Pilarta vaman.
Kasargodia sheebae, discovered in Kasaragod district, honours both the district and Sheeba Smrithy Raj, wife of a researcher. Pilarta vaman, found in Gavi, Pathanamthitta, is named after the Hindu deity Vaman for its small size.
Static GK fact: Scientific naming often reflects geographical, cultural, or morphological features of the species.
Distinct Physical Traits
Kasargodia sheebae displays a brownish-orange carapace with black spots, and orange limbs with black markings. Pilarta vaman has a quadrate carapace and smaller body size. Both species were found in isolated mountain streams flowing through grasslands.
Static GK fact: The family Gecarcinucidae includes a majority of India’s freshwater crab species.
Habitat and Distribution
The Kerala section of the Western Ghats hosts nearly 70% endemic freshwater crabs, making it a critical conservation zone. These crabs are nocturnal and inhabit deep burrows, making them hard to spot. Both newly discovered species are rare, with only a few individuals documented.
Conservation Concerns
Grassland tourism and human interference threaten the habitats of these species. Habitat degradation and pollution could severely impact their survival. Conservation measures are vital to maintain ecological balance and protect these rare species.
Static GK fact: India’s Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, provides legal frameworks for protecting threatened species and habitats.
Scientific Importance
These findings enrich the taxonomy and biodiversity database of the Western Ghats. Publication in peer-reviewed journals like the Journal of Crustacean Biology and Zootaxa ensures scientific credibility. The discoveries highlight the need for continued biodiversity exploration in ecologically sensitive areas.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
New Crab Discoveries in Kerala’s Western Ghats:
| Topic | Detail |
| Location of discovery | Kerala’s Western Ghats |
| Discovering institutions | University of Kerala, National University of Singapore |
| New genus name | Kasargodia |
| New species names | Kasargodia sheebae, Pilarta vaman |
| Found in districts | Kasaragod, Pathanamthitta |
| Family | Gecarcinucidae |
| Endemism rate in Kerala’s freshwater crabs | Nearly 70% |
| Threats | Tourism, habitat degradation, pollution |
| Physical traits of Kasargodia sheebae | Brownish-orange carapace, black spots, orange limbs |
| Physical traits of Pilarta vaman | Quadrate carapace, small size |
