Hidden for 15 Years: New Reed Snake Species Discovered in Mizoram

• Scientists identified Calamaria mizoramensis, a tiny, secretive reed snake, in Mizoram after 15 years of misidentification.
• The non-venomous species, semi-fossorial and nocturnal, was found in forested hills around Aizawl, Reiek, and Kolasib.
• Mizoram University led the discovery with international collaborators from Russia, Germany, and Vietnam.
• Genetic analysis confirmed it as a new species, differing over 15% from closest relatives, highlighting India's unexplored biodiversity.
• Currently "Least Concern" on IUCN Red List, but deforestation and climate change pose future risks to its habitat.

Why It Matters: A new reed snake species, Calamaria mizoramensis, discovered in Mizoram after 15 years, highlights India's rich biodiversity.