Newly Discovered Lizard Species from
Rajasthan
¨
Mesalina bishnoi is a
newly described lizard species from Rajasthan.
¨
It represents the first
confirmed record of the genus Mesalina in India.
¨
The formal scientific
description was published on 1 June 2026.
Taxonomy
¨
The species belongs to
the Mesalina genus.
¨
It has been placed within
the Mesalina watsonana species complex.
¨
Scientists confirmed it
as a new species through morphological examination and genetic analyses.
Discovery and Survey
¨
The specimen was
collected during a field survey in August 2025.
¨
It was discovered near
Gajner in Rajasthan.
¨
The habitat is an open
semi-desert area, part of the arid landscape of the Thar Desert region.
Key Features
¨
It is a small-bodied
lizard species.
¨
The snout-vent length
(SVL) is approximately 39.2 mm.
¨
It has a greyish to
olive-brown body colour.
¨
Distinct stripes and
markings are present on its body.
Naming
¨ The species name “bishnoi” honors the Bishnoi community
¨ The Bishnoi community is widely known for its strong traditions of wildlife and environmental conservation.