Guwahati: A new species of bent-toed gecko discovered in Assam’s Dima Hasao district has been named Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka in honour of the state’s forest department, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Thursday.
“A new bent-toed gecko- Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, discovered in Dima Hasao, has been named after the Assam Forest Dept,” CM Sarma wrote in a post on X.
He stated, “Coinciding with #ForestMartyrsDay, this rare find is a befitting tribute to our brave forest staff where nature rewards their valour with new wonders.”
The scientific epithet ‘vanarakshaka’ is derived from the Sanskrit words vana (forest) and rakshaka (protector). The naming recognises the crucial role of the Assam forest department in conserving biodiversity and safeguarding forests across the state.
The discovery also honours the dedication and sacrifice of frontline forest staff in Assam, many of whom have given their lives in the line of duty.
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According to the experts, the identification of this new species highlights the biodiversity wealth of Assam’s forests, particularly in the less-explored areas of Dima Hasao.
