13 New bush frog species found in the Northeast India

Scientists discovered 13 new bush frog species in Northeast India. (Image: Wildlife Institute of India)

Scientists discovered 13 new bush frog species in Northeast India. The frogs belong to the genus Raorchestes and are tiny. They were found across eight states, including Arunachal and Meghalaya. DNA analysis, frog calls and morphology confirmed their uniqueness. The discovery highlights the region’s rich but underexplored biodiversity.

Who Are These Frogs?

These frog species are tiny and agile. Adults measure just 13–28 millimetres in length.
They are arboreal or semi-arboreal, living mainly in forests. Each species has a unique call and body structure. Some were found in protected areas, ensuring some safety.

What Did Scientists Observe?

Dehradun-based Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has recorded 13 new species of amphibians from the northeastern part of India. Camera and field surveys recorded 81 locations across Northeast India.

DNA metabarcoding confirmed 13 species were previously undescribed. Researchers also re-examined museum specimens for clarification. Four older species were synonymised after detailed analysis. The frogs occupy distinct microhabitats within rainforest layers.

Where were these species Found?

Six species were located in Arunachal Pradesh. Three species were discovered in Meghalaya’s hilly forests. Other species were in Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland and Manipur. Protected areas like Namdapha and Barail ensured conservation.

Forest layers and microhabitats influence their distribution heavily. The frogs serve as indicators of healthy forest ecosystems. This helps plan conservation and protection under climate threats.

Future Studies on these Species

Researchers aim to map detailed ranges of each species. They plan long-term monitoring of population trends in forests. Studies will examine ecological roles within rainforest ecosystems. Genetic analysis may reveal evolutionary relationships with other amphibians. Future research will guide conservation strategies under climate and habitat threats.