Scientists from various organisations have discovered over 200 new species in the Eastern Himalayas between 2009-14. Of the total, 15 new species were found in Bhutan, according to a report called “Hidden Himalayas”, by the World Wildlife Fund.
The new discoveries include over a 100 plants, 39 invertebrates, 26 fish, 10 amphibians, one reptile, one bird and one mammal.
Various striking discoveries found in Bhutan are the bejeweled lance-headed pit viper, spotted wren-babbler and a new species of torrent catfish.
However, the Programme Leader of the WWF Living Himalayas Initiative, Tornikoski said discovering new species is a challenge.
“Some of the issues were the terrain and topography of the Himalayas including Bhutan. Lots of places are inaccessible, so for scientists to actually reach some of the destination in Bhutan or Eastern Himalayas is a challenge in itself and limitation in technical capacities”.
Some of the most striking discoveries include a vibrant blue dwarf walking snakehead fish found in India. This fish can breathe atmospheric air and survive on land for up to four days.
Another discovery is new species of monkey. Their upturned nose leads to a sneeze every time there is a rainfall. The new specie is found in Myanmar.
Tornikoski said 34 new species are discovered every year.
