Guwahati, Sept. 10 -- Researchers have identified a new species of bent-toed gecko, Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, in the montane forests of Assam's Dima Hasao District.

The discovery, published in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, underscores the ecological richness of Northeast India.

The gecko was identified through an integrative approach combining morphological and molecular analyses. Its name, derived from the Sanskrit words "vana" (forest) and "rakshaka" (protector), honors the Assam Forest Department's tireless conservation efforts.

The species epithet vanarakshaka also serves as a tribute to the frontline forest staff who have sacrificed their lives to protect Assam's biodiversity.

Assam ...