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New Frog Species Discovered: Leptobrachium aryatium, a new frog species, has been identified in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest near Guwahati, Assam.
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Named After a College: The frog is named after Arya Vidyapeeth College in Guwahati, honoring the institution’s positive impact on the community, specifically related to changing the locality’s identity.
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Distinct Features: Key characteristics include fiery orange-and-black eyes, a unique reticulated throat pattern, and a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk.
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Long-Term Study: The discovery is the result of a 21-year study by zoologists associated with Arya Vidyapeeth College.
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Initial Misidentification: Initially identified as Leptobrachium smithi in 2004, further molecular and morphological studies, spurred by the recent discovery of Leptobrachium sylheticum, confirmed it as a new species. The distinct advertisement call aided its establishment as a separate species.
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Genus Leptobrachium: The Leptobrachium genus comprises stocky frogs with broad heads, short hind limbs, and distinctively colored eyes, distributed across Southern China, India, and parts of Southeast Asia.
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Garbhanga Reserve Forest: The discovery highlights the biodiversity importance of the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, which plays a crucial role in regulating Guwahati’s climate and water systems and supporting diverse wildlife, including elephants and various other species.
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Threats to Habitat: The Garbhanga Reserve Forest faces threats from urban expansion and habitat destruction, emphasizing the need for conservation efforts.
