Biodiversity Hotspots & Species Discoveries (2025-26): UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

India's biodiversity conservation is currently defined by a 'race against time' where the rapid documentation of new endemic species—ranging from deep-sea squids to high-altitude fungi—is being outpaced by anthropogenic threats and invasive 'biological pollution.' While scientific institutions like BSI and ZSI are identifying species in previously unexplored niches like the subterranean Western Ghats and remote Arunachal Pradesh, international bodies like the IUCN are raising 'significant concern' alerts for India’s premier natural heritage sites. This period (2025-26) marks a critical shift from protecting only charismatic megafauna to a granular, species-specific approach that includes cryptic taxa and often-overlooked kingdoms like Fungi.

Cross-Theme Insight

Analysis of current discoveries reveals that 'hotspots' are not static geographical zones but dynamic, multi-layered reservoirs of life. The discovery of species such as the *Titanidiops kolhapurensis* spider in grasslands and *Gegeneophis valmiki* (subterranean caecilian) highlights that biodiversity richness exists across all strata—underground, in deep-sea trenches, and within specific floral hosts. However, the recurring threat of invasive species like *Senna spectabilis* and the underreported economic cost of biological invasions (estimated at $2.6 trillion globally) suggests that conservation infrastructure is failing to account for the 'slow-motion' degradation caused by exotic plantations in habitats often dismissed as 'wastelands' (like grasslands).

Textbook vs Reality Gap

Standard textbooks like Shankar IAS (Ch. 15, p. 222) define hotspots based on Norman Myers' 1988 criteria (1,500 endemic vascular plants and 70% habitat loss). However, recent IUCN World Heritage Outlook 4 (2024-25) reports now categorize the Western Ghats under 'significant concern' due to non-forest threats like invasive species and fragmented governance. While NCERT (Physical Geography, p. 118) emphasizes 'proper planning,' current data reveals a massive institutional gap: India's management costs for invasive species have been historically underreported by over 1,100%, indicating that static textbook policies are lagging behind the actual economic and ecological impacts of species displacement.

How This Theme Is Evolving

Examination of 2025-26 trends shows a clear evolution toward 'Cryptic Biodiversity' and 'Molecular Taxonomy.' Conservation focus is moving from large-scale habitat protection to DNA-sequencing-based discovery (e.g., the *Allographa effusosoredica* lichen). There is also a notable trajectory toward 'Micro-Hotspots'—identifying specific hills or caves as critical units of conservation, particularly in the Konkan region and Arunachal Pradesh.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

UPSC has transitioned from testing broad hotspot locations (IAS 2011, nid: 14831; CDS 2008, nid: 8408) to testing specific, recently discovered species and their naming conventions (e.g., the 2019/2023 question on the Arunachal pit-viper; CDS 2023, nid: 14604). There is also a consistent interest in the organizational origins of biodiversity databases, such as the IUCN's Invasive Species Specialist Group (IAS 2023, nid: 6054).

Preparation Strategy

Key Connections

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (8 themes, 42 news items)

Biodiversity Discoveries in the Western Ghats and Konkan Region

Focus: A cluster of new species discoveries and significant sightings concentrated in the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot and the adjacent Konkan coast.

UPSC Value: Highlights the continuous documentation of endemic flora and fauna in one of India's most critical biodiversity hotspots, relevant for Environment and Ecology.

9 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-17 [Environment & Ecology] — Squat Lobster Species Discovered near Lakshadweep
  A new species of squat lobster, named Leiogalathea samudragiri, was discovered near Lakshadweep.
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  UPSC Angle: New species of squat lobster, Leiogalathea samudragiri, discovered near Lakshadweep.

  Key Facts:

  • New species of squat lobster
  • Name: Leiogalathea samudragiri
  • Location: Discovered near Lakshadweep
• 2026-02-07 [Environment & Ecology] — New Trapdoor Spider Species Discovered in Maharashtra
  A new species of trapdoor spider, Titanidiops kolhapurensis, has been discovered in the grasslands of the Kolhapur district, Maharashtra. This spider builds camouflaged burrows in grassy meadows and is absent in areas overtaken by exotic tree plantations.
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  UPSC Angle: New trapdoor spider species discovered in Maharashtra.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Titanidiops kolhapurensis (new species of trapdoor spider)
  • Location: Kolhapur district, Maharashtra
  • Habitat: Grasslands, vertical or slanted burrows in flat or sloping grassy meadows
  • Camouflage: Entrances masterfully camouflaged to blend with the soil
  • Absence: Notably absent in areas overtaken by exotic tree plantations
• 2026-01-28 [Environment & Ecology] — Lepidagathis Konkanensis: New Plant Species
  A new species of flowering plant, Lepidagathis konkanensis, has been discovered in the Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra's Konkan region. It was first encountered during a floristic survey of the region’s lateritic plateaus. Scientists have recommended it be classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN.
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  UPSC Angle: New plant species discovered: Lepidagathis konkanensis.

  Key Facts:

  • Lepidagathis konkanensis is a newly discovered species of flowering plant.
  • It was discovered in the Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra's Konkan region.
  • It is currently only known to exist in a small area of less than 65 sq.km.
  • Scientists have recommended it be classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN.
• 2026-01-11 [Environment & Ecology] — Indian Giant Squirrel Sighted During Tiger Estimation 2026
  During the All India Tiger Estimation 2026 survey, the Indian giant squirrel, also known as the Malabar Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica), was sighted in the Atwan region of the Pune forest division. It is Maharashtra's state animal and a large rodent species native to India.
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  UPSC Angle: Indian giant squirrel sighted during Tiger Estimation 2026 survey.

  Key Facts:

  • Indian giant squirrel (Malabar Giant Squirrel, Ratufa indica) sighted in Atwan region, Pune forest division
  • Sighting during All India Tiger Estimation 2026
  • Maharashtra's state animal
  • Native to India
• 2025-12-06 [Environment & Ecology] — Discovery of Dolomedes indicus
  A new species of spider, Dolomedes indicus, was discovered in the evergreen rainforests of the Western Ghats, in the Wayanad district of Kerala. This marks the first time a spider of the Dolomedes genus has been described in India.
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  UPSC Angle: New spider species, Dolomedes indicus, discovered in Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Dolomedes indicus
  • Location: Western Ghats, Wayanad district of Kerala
  • Common Name: Raft or fishing spiders
  • Habitat: Pristine, cool forest streams
  • Predator Type: Semi-aquatic active predator
• 2025-08-16 [Environment & Ecology] — New Damselfly Species Discovered
  Two new species of damselflies, Konkan Shadowdamsel and Crimson Shadowdamsel, have been discovered in the Western Ghats by researchers from Maharashtra and Kerala. The Konkan Shadowdamsel was discovered in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district, and the Crimson Shadowdamsel was discovered in Kerala's Thiruvananthapuram district. Shadowdamsels usually only thrive in pristine habitats and small streams and can act as indicators of the health of our forests.
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  UPSC Angle: New damselfly species discovered in the Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Konkan Shadowdamsel discovered in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district
  • Crimson Shadowdamsel discovered in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district
  • Crimson Shadowdamsel has a reddish body
  • Konkan Shadowdamsel has a coffee-brown ground colouration
  • Konkan Shadowdamsel discovered in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra.
  • Crimson Shadowdamsel discovered in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
  • Antitrisuloides catocalina cyclica moth found in the Western Ghats.
• 2025-08-16 [Environment & Ecology] — Antitrisuloides Catocalina Moth Species
  Antitrisuloides Catocalina, a nocturnal moth species belonging to the genus Antitrisuloides, has been found in the Western Ghats for the first time. It is part of the Noctuidae family, and the specimen found in Kerala was identified as the subspecies Antitrisuloides catocalina cyclica, previously reported only from North-East India.
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  UPSC Angle: Antitrisuloides Catocalina moth species found in Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Nocturnal moth species belonging to genus Antitrisuloides
  • Found in the Western Ghats for the first time
  • Part of the Noctuidae family
  • Specimen found in Kerala was identified as Antitrisuloides catocalina cyclica
• 2025-06-10 [Science & Technology] — New species of planarian worm discovered in Pune
  A PhD student and her research guide from Modern College of Arts, Science, and Commerce discovered a new species of planarian worm in Pashan Lake, Pune. The new species, named Dugesia punensis, marks the first time since 1983 that a new species of planarian was scientifically recorded in India and has a regenerative potential of 14 days.
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  UPSC Angle: New planarian worm species, Dugesia punensis, discovered in Pashan Lake, Pune.

  Key Facts:

  • New species of planarian worm discovered in Pashan Lake, Pune
  • Species named Dugesia punensis
  • First new species of planarian recorded in India since 1983
  • Specimen deposited at the Zoological Survey of India
  • Regenerative potential of 14 days
• 2025-04-10 [Environment & Ecology] — New Species of Land Snail Discovered in Maharashtra
  A new species of terrestrial snail, named Theobaldius concaniensis, was discovered in the Konkan region of Maharashtra.
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  UPSC Angle: New species discovery: Theobaldius concaniensis, a terrestrial snail in Maharashtra.

  Key Facts:

  • New species: Theobaldius concaniensis
  • Discovered in: Konkan, Maharashtra

Biodiversity Discoveries in North East India

Focus: New faunal and floral species discovered specifically in the North Eastern states of India (Meghalaya, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland).

UPSC Value: North East India is a critical biodiversity hotspot; tracking these discoveries helps in understanding the region's ecological richness and conservation significance.

8 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-17 [Environment & Ecology] — ZSI Discovers New Hexapod Species in Eastern Himalayas
  The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered a new species of Diplura, Lepidocampa sikkimensis, in the eastern Himalayas, marking the first time an Indian research team has identified and described a member of this micro-arthropod group. The species was identified from specimens collected near Ravangla in Sikkim and Kurseong in Bengal.
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  UPSC Angle: ZSI discovers new hexapod species in Eastern Himalayas.

  Key Facts:

  • The Zoological Survey of India discovered a new species of Diplura in the eastern Himalayas.
  • The newly described species is named Lepidocampa sikkimensis.
  • The findings were published on Jan 7, 2026, in the international taxonomic journal Zootaxa
  • The species was identified from specimens collected near Ravangla in Sikkim.
  • Additional specimens were later found in Kurseong in Bengal.
  • The study also provides DNA barcode data for an Indian Lepidocampa species.
• 2026-01-30 [Environment & Ecology] — New plant species discovered in Nagaland
  Researchers from Nagaland University, led by Gyati Yam, discovered Hoya nagaensis, a new plant species in Nagaland’s high-altitude forests, documenting its traits and ecology. The findings were published in Kew Bulletin.
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  UPSC Angle: New plant species Hoya nagaensis discovered in Nagaland.

  Key Facts:

  • Researchers from Nagaland University
  • Led by Gyati Yam
  • Discovered Hoya nagaensis (new plant species)
  • Found in Nagaland’s high-altitude forests
  • Published in Kew Bulletin
• 2026-01-10 [Environment & Ecology] — Two New Frog Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
  A team of scientists led by S. D. Biju discovered two new frog species, Soman's Slender Arm Frog (Leptobrachium somani) and Mechuka Slender Arm Frog (Leptobrachium mechuka), from remote mountain habitats of Arunachal Pradesh.
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  UPSC Angle: Two new frog species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh.

  Key Facts:

  • Two new frog species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
  • Soman's Slender Arm Frog (Leptobrachium somani)
  • Mechuka Slender Arm Frog (Leptobrachium mechuka)
  • Discovered by S. D. Biju
• 2026-01-06 [Environment & Ecology] — New Reed Snake Species Discovered in Mizoram
  A new species of reed snake has been discovered in Mizoram and named Calamaria Mizoramensis after the state.
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  UPSC Angle: New reed snake species discovered in Mizoram.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: New reed snake species
  • Location: Mizoram
  • Name: Calamaria Mizoramensis
• 2025-12-29 [Environment & Ecology] — Parasynnemellisia khasiana: New Fungus Species Discovered in Meghalaya
  A new species of fungus, Parasynnemellisia khasiana, has been discovered in the bamboo forests around Mawsynram, Meghalaya. The fungus is named after the Khasi Hills and was found on dead stems of a thorny bamboo species (Chimonocalamus griffithianus). Laboratory analysis confirmed that the organism did not belong to any existing fungal genus, leading researchers to establish a new genus, Parasynnemellisia.
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  UPSC Angle: New fungus species discovered in Meghalaya.

  Key Facts:

  • New fungus species: Parasynnemellisia khasiana
  • Location of discovery: Bamboo forests around Mawsynram, Meghalaya
  • Named after: Khasi Hills
  • Found on: Dead stems of Chimonocalamus griffithianus (thorny bamboo species)
• 2025-12-19 [Environment & Ecology] — Channa bhoi: New Snakehead Fish Species Discovered in Meghalaya
  A new species of snakehead fish, Channa bhoi, has been discovered from a small mountain stream near Iewmawlong village in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya. It belongs to the Channidae family and the Gachua group. The discovery brings the total number of Channa species recorded from India to 26.
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  UPSC Angle: Channa bhoi, a new snakehead fish species, discovered in Meghalaya.

  Key Facts:

  • New snakehead fish species named Channa bhoi
  • Discovered from a small mountain stream near Iewmawlong village in the Ri-Bhoi district of Meghalaya
  • Belongs to the Channidae family and the Gachua group
  • Identified as a sister species to Channa bipuli
  • Bhois are indigenous people of the Khasi tribe who inhabit the Ri-Bhoi region
  • The discovery brings the total number of Channa species recorded from India to 26
• 2025-12-10 [Environment & Ecology] — New Jumping Spider Species Discovered in Meghalaya
  Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have identified two new species of jumping spiders, Asemonea dentis and Colyttus nongwar, in Meghalaya. Asemonea dentis is only the third Indian species identified under the Asemonea genus and is named for a tooth-like projection on the male's palpal femur. Colyttus nongwar, the second Indian member of the Oriental genus Colyttus, is named after Nongwar, the Khasi Hills village where it was found.
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  UPSC Angle: New jumping spider species discovered in Meghalaya.

  Key Facts:

  • Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
  • Asemonea dentis
  • Colyttus nongwar
  • Meghalaya
  • Salticidae family
  • Nongwar, Khasi Hills village
• 2025-04-17 [Environment & Ecology] — Discovery of new frog species Leptobrachium aryatium
  A new frog species, Leptobrachium aryatium, has been discovered in Assam's Garbhanga Reserve Forest after a 21-year study. The species is named after Arya Vidyapeeth College in Guwahati. The frog has distinctive features such as fiery orange-and-black eyes, a unique reticulated throat pattern, and a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk.
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  UPSC Angle: New frog species Leptobrachium aryatium discovered in Assam.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Leptobrachium aryatium
  • Location: Garbhanga Reserve Forest, Guwahati, Assam
  • Distinctive features: fiery orange-and-black eyes, a unique reticulated throat pattern, and a smooth, rhythmic call at dusk

New Species Discoveries in Indian Biodiversity (2025-2026)

Focus: Recent scientific identification and naming of new flora and fauna species across diverse Indian ecosystems (Himalayas, Aravalis, Arabian Sea).

UPSC Value: Essential for Environment & Ecology (GS III) to track India's biodiversity registry, endemic species, and the contributions of institutes like ZSI and CMFRI.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-25 [Environment & Ecology] — Strobilanthes Riteshii: New flowering plant species discovered
  A new species of flowering plant, Strobilanthes Riteshii, belonging to the family Acanthaceae, was discovered in the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh during recent floristic surveys. The plant is currently known only from its type locality at an elevation of around 1,600 metres.
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  UPSC Angle: New flowering plant species, Strobilanthes Riteshii, discovered in Arunachal Pradesh.

  Key Facts:

  • New species of flowering plant: Strobilanthes Riteshii
  • Family: Acanthaceae
  • Discovered in Chayangtajo, East Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh
  • Elevation: around 1,600 metres
• 2026-01-07 [Environment & Ecology] — New Katydid Species Discovered
  A new species of katydid, Conocephalus Nagariensis, was discovered in the Budgam district. The species is distinguished by its spindle-shaped appendages (cerci) and a stridulatory file containing exactly 34 teeth. It is named after Dr. Rajendra Nagar, a researcher credited with discovering several other species of katydids.
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  UPSC Angle: New katydid species discovered in Budgam district: Conocephalus Nagariensis.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Conocephalus Nagariensis
  • Found in: Budgam district
  • Distinguished by: Spindle-shaped appendages (cerci)
  • Stridulatory file contains exactly 34 teeth
  • Dedicated to: Dr. Rajendra Nagar
• 2025-11-23 [Science & Technology] — New Deep-Sea Squid Species Discovered in Arabian Sea
  Researchers from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi, have discovered a new species of deep-sea squid in the Arabian Sea, naming it *Taningia silasii*. This species, belonging to the Octopoteuthidae family, was found off the Kollam coast at a depth of approximately 390 meters and is only the second formally recognized species in the *Taningia* genus.
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  UPSC Angle: New deep-sea squid species *Taningia silasii* discovered in Arabian Sea.

  Key Facts:

  • New species: Taningia silasii
  • Discovered in: Arabian Sea, off Kollam coast
  • Depth: 390 meters
  • Family: Octopoteuthidae
  • Length: 45 cm
  • New species name: Taningia silasii
  • Discovered by: Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi
  • Location: Arabian Sea, off the Kollam coast
  • Depth: Approximately 390 meters
  • Genus: Taningia
  • Second recognized species in the genus: Taningia (Taningia danae was the first)
• 2025-08-29 [Science & Technology] — Discovery of New Collembola Species
  Scientists at the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) announced the discovery of two new Collembola, or springtails species: Salina aurantiamaculata and Salina pseudomontana. The last time a Salina species was recorded in India was in 1979, bringing the country's tally to 17 species.
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  UPSC Angle: Discovery of two new Collembola species by ZSI.

  Key Facts:

  • Discovery of two new Collembola species: Salina aurantiamaculata and Salina pseudomontana
  • Discovered by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI)
  • Salina aurantiamaculata named for its bright orange markings
  • Salina pseudomontana similar to Salina montana
  • Both species belong to the cosmopolitan “celebensis” group of Collembola
  • Last Salina species recorded in India in 1979
  • India's tally now at 17 species
• 2025-06-17 [Environment & Ecology] — New Flowering Plant Species Discovered in Aravali Hills
  A new flowering plant species, Portulaca bharat, has been discovered in the Aravali hills near Jaipur. The plant is adapted to dry and rocky landscapes and exhibits water-storing capabilities. There are now 11 known Portulaca species in India, including four endemics.
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  UPSC Angle: New flowering plant species discovered in Aravali Hills: Portulaca bharat.

  Key Facts:

  • New flowering plant species discovered: Portulaca bharat.
  • Discovered in the Aravali hills near Jaipur.
  • The plant is adapted to dry and rocky landscapes.
  • There are 11 known Portulaca species in India, including four endemics.

Biodiversity Discoveries in the Western Ghats

Focus: New species discovered within the Western Ghats range, spanning Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala.

UPSC Value: The Western Ghats is a UNESCO World Heritage site and global biodiversity hotspot; new findings here are high-priority for environmental studies.

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-17 [Science & Technology] — Discovery of Gegeneophis valmiki
  Indian scientists recently discovered a rare subterranean amphibian species in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra and named it Gegeneophis valmiki. It belongs to the genus Gegeneophis, commonly called blind caecilians, which are limbless, worm-like creatures that spend most of their lives underground.
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  UPSC Angle: Discovery of Gegeneophis valmiki, a new subterranean amphibian species.

  Key Facts:

  • Gegeneophis valmiki discovered in the northern Western Ghats of Maharashtra
  • Belongs to the genus Gegeneophis, commonly called blind caecilians
• 2025-12-01 [Environment & Ecology] — New Damselfly Species Discovered in Western Ghats
  A new species of damselfly named, Protosticta sooryaprakashi, sporting vibrant sky-blue markings, has been discovered in the biodiversity hotspots of India's Western Ghats. Named the Kodagu Shadowdamsel, it was discovered in Karnataka's Kodagu district and named in honour of the late Dr. Sooryaprakash Shenoy. Its presence is a strong indicator of a healthy ecosystem with minimal pollution.
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  UPSC Angle: New damselfly species, Protosticta sooryaprakashi, discovered in Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Protosticta sooryaprakashi
  • Common Name: Kodagu Shadowdamsel
  • Discovered in Karnataka’s Kodagu district
• 2025-09-23 [Environment & Ecology] — New Plant Species Discovered in Western Ghats
  Researchers have discovered a new plant species, Impatiens selvasinghii, in the Kudremukh range of the Western Ghats in Karnataka at an altitude of 1,630 meters. Named after a professor at Madras Christian College, it is one of the smallest flowered balsams from the Western Ghats. Over 210 taxa are endemic to India, with 130 in the Western Ghats, and 80% of taxa in the Western Ghats are categorized as endangered.
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  UPSC Angle: New plant species discovered in Western Ghats: Impatiens selvasinghii.

  Key Facts:

  • New species: Impatiens selvasinghii
  • Discovered in Kudremukh range of Western Ghats, Karnataka
  • Altitude: 1,630 meters
  • Named after professor at Madras Christian College
  • Over 210 taxa endemic to India
  • 130 endemic to Western Ghats
  • 80% of taxa in Western Ghats are endangered
• 2025-08-03 [Environment & Ecology] — New Antlion Species Discovered in Kerala's Western Ghats
  Three antlion species were recorded for the first time in Kerala's Western Ghats, marking a significant ecological extension of typically dry-zone species into humid forest habitats. This discovery highlights the biodiversity of the region.
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  UPSC Angle: New antlion species discovered in Kerala's Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Three antlion species recorded for the first time in Kerala's Western Ghats
• 2025-07-19 [Environment & Ecology] — New Lichen Species Discovered in Western Ghats
  A new lichen species, Allographa effusosoredica, was discovered in the Western Ghats by scientists at MACS-Agharkar Institute. This marks the first Indian Allographa supported by DNA sequencing, featuring rare chemical traits and a Trentepohlia algal partner. The research, backed by ANRF, emphasizes the need for molecular studies in documenting India’s lichen biodiversity.
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  UPSC Angle: New lichen species discovered in Western Ghats: Allographa effusosoredica.

  Key Facts:

  • New species: Allographa effusosoredica
  • Location: Western Ghats
  • First Allographa species in India confirmed with molecular sequencing
  • Research institution: MACS-Agharkar Research Institute, Pune
  • Research funding: Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF)
  • New lichen species: Allographa effusosoredica
  • Discovered in the Western Ghats
  • By scientists at MACS-Agharkar Institute
  • First Indian Allographa supported by DNA sequencing
  • Features rare chemical traits
  • Has a Trentepohlia algal partner
  • Research backed by ANRF

The Escalating Threat of Invasive Alien Species in India

Focus: Ecological impacts, economic costs, and conservation warnings regarding invasive alien species across India's biodiversity hotspots, specifically the Western Ghats.

UPSC Value: Crucial for understanding environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and the management challenges of invasive species in India as part of GS Paper III (Environment).

5 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-10 [Environment & Ecology] — Senna Spectabilis Invasive Species
  Senna spectabilis is classified as a major invasive species in India, particularly problematic in regions like the Western Ghats, where it suppresses native flora and disrupts ecosystems.
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  UPSC Angle: Senna spectabilis classified as major invasive species in India.

  Key Facts:

  • Senna spectabilis
  • Fabaceae (legume) family
  • Popcorn Bush Cedar, Archibald's Cassia, Calceolaria Cassia, Golden Shower, Scented Shower, Fetid Cassia
  • Western Ghats
  • Classified as Least Concern under the IUCN Red List
• 2025-10-27 [Environment & Ecology] — IUCN Red-Flags Western Ghats and Two National Parks in India
  The IUCN's World Heritage Outlook 4 report (2024) has categorized the Western Ghats, Manas National Park (Assam), and Sundarbans National Park (West Bengal) as sites of “significant concern” due to threats from climate change, tourism, invasive species, and hydropower projects.
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  UPSC Angle: IUCN red-flags Western Ghats and two Indian national parks.

  Key Facts:

  • Western Ghats, Manas National Park, and Sundarbans National Park marked as sites of significant concern by IUCN
  • Nearly 40% of global sites face conservation concerns
  • Climate change is the most prevalent threat
  • IUCN red-flagged the Western Ghats due to mining, deforestation, and unplanned development.
  • Report: IUCN's World Heritage Outlook 4 report (2024)
  • Sites listed: Western Ghats, Manas National Park, Sundarbans National Park
  • Threats: Climate change, tourism, invasive species, hydropower projects
  • The 2024 report lists Western Ghats, Manas National Park, and Sundarbans National Park under “significant concern” due to degrading ecological health
• 2025-10-09 [Environment & Ecology] — Conservation Scientists Warn of Invasive Alien Species Impact on Indian Biodiversity
  Conservation scientists are warning that invasive alien species are destroying local biodiversity and habitats in India. These non-native organisms, introduced intentionally or accidentally, lack natural predators allowing them to multiply unchecked and outcompete native species.
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  UPSC Angle: Invasive alien species impact Indian biodiversity.

  Key Facts:

  • Invasive alien species destroying local biodiversity in India
  • Non-native organisms introduced intentionally or accidentally
  • Lack of natural predators
  • Rapid spread, outcompeting native species
• 2025-10-09 [Environment & Ecology] — Examples of Invasive Alien Species in India
  Several invasive alien species are impacting India's ecosystems. Examples include Lantana camara, which invades forests, Parthenium hysterophorus (Congress grass) that spreads over farmland and causes allergies, Eichhornia crassipes (Water hyacinth) that chokes water bodies, and African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) that outcompetes native fish.
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  UPSC Angle: Examples of Invasive Alien Species in India.

  Key Facts:

  • Lantana camara: invades forests
  • Parthenium hysterophorus (Congress grass): spreads over farmland, causes allergies
  • Eichhornia crassipes (Water hyacinth): chokes water bodies
  • African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus): outcompetes native fish
• 2025-08-25 [Environment & Ecology] — India Underestimates Economic Cost of Invasive Species
  A new international study reveals that invasive plants and animals have caused over $2.6 trillion in global damage since 1960, with India's management costs underreported by over 1,100%. As per the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), invasive alien species are non-native organisms that threaten biodiversity, disrupt ecosystems, and cause economic loss. Management strategies include strong quarantine regulations, early detection, data monitoring, community participation, and international cooperation.
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  UPSC Angle: India underestimates economic cost of invasive species.

  Key Facts:

  • India's management costs are underreported by over 1.16 billion percent
  • MoEFCC recognizes over 154 invasive faunal species
  • Lantana camara has invaded over 40% of India's tiger habitats
  • Global cost of invasive species since 1960 exceeds $2.2 trillion
  • Invasive species caused over $2.6 trillion in global damage since 1960
  • India's management costs are underreported by over 1,100%
  • India recognizes over 154 invasive faunal species
  • Invasive plants like Lantana camara have colonized 40% of India's tiger habitats
  • Europe reported the highest cost of invasive species at $1.5 trillion

New Species Discoveries in Arunachal Pradesh

Focus: Recent scientific discoveries of new plant and fungi species specifically within the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

UPSC Value: Highlights Arunachal Pradesh's status as a critical biodiversity hotspot and the ongoing documentation of its endemic flora and fungi.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-07 [Environment & Ecology] — New Macro Fungi Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
  A new species of "colossal" macro fungi, characterized by thick, leathery, and massive fruiting bodies, has been discovered in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. It grows on old-growth Abies (fir) trees. The fungi is remarkably sturdy and large.
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  UPSC Angle: New macro fungi species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng.

  Key Facts:

  • Found in: West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh
  • Grows on: Old-growth Abies (fir) trees
  • Features: Sturdy and large fruiting bodies
• 2025-10-17 [Environment & Ecology] — New Balsam Flower Species Discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
  A new species of Balsam flower has been discovered in Arunachal Pradesh, adding to the region's rich biodiversity.
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  UPSC Angle: New Balsam flower species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh; adds to biodiversity.

  Key Facts:

  • New Balsam Flower Species
  • Arunachal Pradesh
• 2025-09-03 [Environment & Ecology] — Gastrochilus pechei Orchid Discovery
  A new orchid plant species, Gastrochilus pechei, belonging to the Gastrochilus genus, has been discovered. It flowers in September-October and thrives in moist, evergreen rainforest on small trees near riverbanks.
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  UPSC Angle: New orchid species, Gastrochilus pechei, discovered.

  Key Facts:

  • The Gastrochilus pechei was known to bloom only in Myanmar.
  • Before the Vijoynagar find, 22 species of the Gastrochilus genus had been recorded from India.
  • Of these, 15 are from Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Arunachal Pradesh is often referred to as the Orchid State of India, boasting approximately 60% of the country's varieties.
• 2025-06-30 [Environment & Ecology] — Begonia nyishiorum: New plant species discovered
  A new species of flowering plant, Begonia nyishiorum, endemic to the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh, has been discovered. It grows in moist, shaded mountain slopes between 1,500 and 3,000 metres above sea level. It is known for the dense crimson, fringed scales that sheath its light green petioles.
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  UPSC Angle: New plant species, Begonia nyishiorum, discovered in Arunachal Pradesh.

  Key Facts:

  • New species of flowering plant: Begonia nyishiorum.
  • Endemic to the East Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Grows between 1,500 and 3,000 metres above sea level.
  • Recognisable by dense crimson, fringed scales on petioles.

New Fungal Species Discoveries Across India

Focus: Recent identification of new mushroom and fungi species in diverse ecosystems (Himalayas, Deccan Plateau, Northeast).

UPSC Value: Useful for tracking mycological diversity and understanding specific symbiotic relationships (e.g., with oak or pine) in Indian forests.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-27 [Environment & Ecology] — New Mushroom Species Discovered in Uttarakhand
  Researchers have discovered a new species of mushroom, Hemileccinum indicum, in the temperate forests of the Indian Himalayas, specifically in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand. This marks the first time the genus Hemileccinum has been documented in India. The mushroom forms a symbiotic relationship with oak trees, aiding in nutrient exchange.
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  UPSC Angle: New mushroom species discovered in Uttarakhand: Hemileccinum indicum.

  Key Facts:

  • New mushroom species: Hemileccinum indicum
  • Discovered in Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand
  • First documentation of the genus Hemileccinum in India
  • Forms symbiotic partnership with oak trees
  • Bolete mushroom with pores instead of gills
  • A new species of mushroom named Hemileccinum indicum was discovered.
  • It was found growing among oak trees in the Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand.
  • It marks the first time the genus Hemileccinum has been documented in India.
• 2025-10-18 [Environment & Ecology] — Hygrocybe Pellucida Sighted in Kawal Tiger Reserve
  Hygrocybe pellucida, a rare fungi species, has been sighted for the first time in Telangana's Kawal Tiger Reserve. These fungi are characterized by their bright, waxy, and vividly colored fruiting bodies, typically found in unimproved grasslands.
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  UPSC Angle: Hygrocybe pellucida sighted in Kawal Tiger Reserve.

  Key Facts:

  • Species: Hygrocybe pellucida
  • Location: Kawal Tiger Reserve, Telangana
  • Characteristics: Bright, waxy, and vividly colored fruiting bodies
  • Habitat: Unimproved grasslands
• 2025-09-22 [Environment & Ecology] — Lactifluus khasianus: New Edible Mushroom Species Discovered in Meghalaya
  A new species of edible mushroom, Lactifluus khasianus, has been discovered in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills. Known to Khasi tribal communities as “Tit iongnah,” it grows in association with Khasi pine (Pinus kesiya) at altitudes of around 1,600 metres.
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  UPSC Angle: New edible mushroom species discovered in Meghalaya: Lactifluus khasianus.

  Key Facts:

  • New species of edible mushroom discovered in Meghalaya's East Khasi Hills.
  • Known to Khasi tribal communities as “Tit iongnah”.
  • Grows in association with Khasi pine (Pinus kesiya) at altitudes of around 1,600 metres.

Biodiversity Discoveries in the Western Ghats Hotspot

Focus: Recent taxonomic discoveries of new species across diverse biological kingdoms (insects, fish, and fungi) within the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot of India.

UPSC Value: Highlights the ecological significance of the Western Ghats and the ongoing role of Indian research institutions in documenting endemic biodiversity for conservation purposes.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-22 [Science & Technology] — New Ant Fly Species Discovered in India
  Researchers from Kerala and Tamil Nadu have identified two previously unknown species of ant flies — Metadon ghorpadei and Metadon reemeri. These flies belong to the subfamily Microdontinae within the family Syrphidae (hoverflies) and their larvae live inside ant nests and feed on ant broods (eggs, larvae, and pupae).
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  UPSC Angle: Discovery of new ant fly species, Metadon ghorpadei and Metadon reemeri.

  Key Facts:

  • The new species are named Metadon ghorpadei and Metadon reemeri.
• 2025-09-11 [Science & Technology] — New Aspergillus Species Discovered in Western Ghats
  Indian scientists from MACS–Agharkar Research Institute (Pune), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), have discovered two new species of Aspergillus section Nigri from the Western Ghats.
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  UPSC Angle: New Aspergillus species discovered in Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Discovered by MACS–Agharkar Research Institute (Pune), under the Department of Science & Technology (DST).
• 2025-04-25 [Environment & Ecology] — New Rohu Fish Species Discovered in Western Ghats
  Two new species of freshwater Rohu fish, Labeo uru and Labeo chekida, have been discovered in the Western Ghats region of India. Scientists from ICAR-NBFGR identified the species. This discovery highlights the rich and previously undocumented fish biodiversity of the Western Ghats.
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  UPSC Angle: Two new Rohu fish species discovered in Western Ghats.

  Key Facts:

  • Labeo uru and Labeo chekida, two new species of freshwater Rohu fish, have been discovered in the Western Ghats region of India.
  • Labeo uru was found in the Chandragiri River.
  • Labeo chekida, locally known as 'kaka chekida', is a small, dark-bodied fish discovered in the Chalakkudy River.