Scientists discovered in Myanmar 19 new species of geckos

Most of the new species belongs to the genus kryvopillya geckos.

American scientists have discovered in Myanmar 19 species of geckos that live on a very small area.

What surprised the researchers was the fact that all animals are detected on site, measuring 90 by 50 kilometers.

According to lead study author Lee Grismer from La Sierra University in California, that is a rarity. Scientists often find in a small area close to many species of invertebrates, but many species of reptiles from earlier in Myanmar have not yet found.

The reason for the findings is likely associated with an unusual landscape. This area is essentially a plain. But in a small area large blocks of limestone rises to a height of 400 meters, and the surface is riddled with caves. These limestone blocks are a kind of evolutionary Islands, where the geckos have evolved into separate species.

Important is the fact that many limestone rocks are considered sacred to local Buddhists. The rocks were guarded by the monks and they were not allowed visitors.

In 2016, the research team Hesmer made the first journey to this region and discovered 15 new species of geckos. The next expedition specialists found 4 more.

Most of the new species belongs to the genus kryvopillya geckos (Cyrtodactylus). However, the researchers also found three species belonging to the genus of dwarf geckos (Lygodactylus), whose members are most often found on mountain tops.

paradox