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New Frog Species Named 'Amolops shillong' Discovered in Meghalaya.

Environment | Dated: 06 Jun 2025

In May 2025, researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Kolkata, along with collaborators from other institutions, discovered a new species of frog named 'Amolops shillong', also known as the Shillong Cascade Frog, in the urban forest landscape of Shillong, East Khasi Hills district, Meghalaya.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - The species was found at an average elevation of 4,990 feet, and the discovery was officially published in the Records of the Zoological Survey of India journal.
  • - The species description is based on three specimens collected between 2022 and 2023—two males from Umthlong and one female from Umrynjah, both localities situated in the Mawlai area of Shillong.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) Amolops shillong belongs to the Amolops indoburmanensis species complex—a group of frogs that appear similar in appearance but are genetically distinct. It is genetically most closely related to Amolops siju, which was discovered in 2023 from Siju Cave in South Garo Hills, Meghalaya.
  • (ii) This new species is distinguishable by its body size, skin texture, and body proportions and Its natural habitat includes fast-flowing streams and urban forest patches in Shillong.
  • (iii) India is home to 20 known Amolops species, of which 16 are endemic. Notably, nine species, including Amolops shillong, have been discovered in the last two decades—mainly in Northeast India, reflecting the region’s rich biodiversity.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Recently, a new frog species named 'Amolops shillong' was discovered in which Indian state?

Correct Answer: Meghalaya

🚀 Quick Recap: