A fascinating addition to biodiversity has been uncovered in east China's Anhui Province. Chinese researchers have identified a new gecko species, Gekko kaiyai, nestled within the picturesque Dabie Mountains.
The discovery is the result of a collaborative effort between Anhui University, Nanjing Normal University, and the Chengdu Institute of Biology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Their groundbreaking findings were recently published in the journal Animals.
Gekko kaiyai stands out due to its unique morphological features, setting it apart from its relatives. Molecular analyses, particularly of three mitochondrial DNA fragments, revealed that this new species forms an independent clade, highlighting its distinct evolutionary path.
This discovery not only enriches our understanding of the region's biodiversity but also underscores the importance of continued scientific exploration in lesser-studied habitats.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
