Overview

• The species, Cyrtodactylus vanarakshaka, is formally described in the Journal of Asia-Pacific Biodiversity.
• Researchers recorded the gecko on the forested slopes of Jatinga in the Barail Hills of Dima Hasao district.
• Distinctive morphology and molecular data confirm it as part of the Cyrtodactylus khasiensis group, which is known for high endemism.
• The Sanskrit-derived epithet meaning 'forest protector' honors the Assam Forest Department and frontline staff, drawing public praise from Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Forest Martyrs Day.
• The authors call for expanded field surveys in Assam's hill ecosystems, and scientists say the Barail Hills may still harbor undiscovered species.