Great Nicobar Project: Discovery of New Species

Why in News

Recently, more than 40 new species, including a new snake and a possible new bird species, have been discovered in the Great Nicobar Mega Infrastructure Project area.

About the New Discoveries

• New snake species: Lycodon irwini
  • Named after Australian zookeeper Steve Irwin.
  • Only four recordings of this snake have been found so far, highlighting its rarity.
  • Due to its extremely limited regional distribution, it has been recommended for "Endangered" status on the IUCN Red List.
• New bird species: Great Nicobar Crake (Rallina group)
  • It has been camera-recorded only three times in the last 10 years.
  •  Its unique physical characteristics may make it a species new to science.
  • Little information is available about its biology, distribution, population, etc.
• Other Discoveries (2021–2025)
  • Approximately 40 new species: 2 frogs, 4 crabs, 2 geckos, and several insects: flies, moths, beetles, etc.
  • Nearly half of these species were discovered in 2025 alone.

Key Findings

• The Great Nicobar Island region is home to 650 plant species and over 1,800 animal species.
• Approximately 24% endemism has been recorded, meaning many species are found only here.
• Continuous new discoveries make it clear that this region is one of India's richest tropical rainforests.
• The scientific community believes that this area is highly sensitive and its protection should be a top priority.
• According to Asad Rahmani, former director of the Bombay Natural History Society, Great Nicobar is India's "finest tropical rainforest" and needs complete protection.

Significance

• Biodiversity Conservation: The discovery of new species demonstrates that this region is extremely important for scientific study and conservation.
• Ecologically Sensitive Zone: The rarity and endemism of its flora and fauna make it of national and global significance.
• Infrastructure vs. Environment: These discoveries have provided a stronger basis for environmental impact assessment (EIA) amid ongoing mega projects.
• Scientific Research: The continued discovery of new species makes this region a hotspot for biology, ecology, and conservation science.