Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 14 January 2025 | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

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Scientists from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have made an exciting discovery by identifying a new species of pangolin, named the Indo-Burmese pangolin (Manis indo-burmanica).

This species diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago, shedding light on the evolutionary diversity of pangolins in the region. 

The announcement was made on January 10, 2025, following a comprehensive study led by Mukesh Thakur at ZSI.

Utilising advanced genomic tools to analyze mitochondrial genomes, the research highlights how dramatic geo-climatic changes in the Indo-Burmese region—a biodiversity hotspot—have influenced the evolution of this species.

"This discovery is a testament to the power of modern genetic tools in uncovering hidden diversity," said Thakur. "The Indo-Burmese pangolin not only enriches our understanding of Asian pangolins but also emphasizes the need for region-specific conservation efforts."

The research team included Lenrik Konchok Wangmo, a PhD scholar at the University of Calcutta, who played a crucial role in identifying paratype specimens from Arunachal Pradesh.  

Wangmo expressed pride in contributing to this significant discovery, noting that it underscores the importance of protecting pangolin habitats from threats such as poaching and habitat degradation.

Genetic analysis confirmed that the Indo-Burmese pangolin diverged during the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, periods marked by significant climatic and geological shifts. The species is primarily found in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, with potential ranges extending into Nepal, Bhutan, and Myanmar. 

The ZSI's findings highlight the urgent need for targeted conservation strategies to protect this newly identified species and its habitat.

As pangolins face increasing threats globally, understanding their evolutionary history becomes crucial for ensuring their survival.

The discovery of Manis indo-burmanica not only adds to the rich tapestry of biodiversity but also emphasizes the critical role of scientific research in wildlife conservation.

[Excerpt from India Today"Team from Zoological Survey of India discovers new pangolin species"Dated 14/01/25]

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Sol: Manis indoburmanica diverged from the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) approximately 3.4 million years ago, as revealed through genomic studies.

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Ans: (b)
Sol: The Indo-Burmese pangolin inhabits areas between 180 and 1830 meters above sea level, as noted in the study.

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Sol: The discovery of the Indo-Burmese pangolin was published in the journal Mammalian Biology, highlighting its importance in biodiversity research.

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Sol: The study found that Manis indoburmanica differs genetically from the Chinese pangolin by 3.8%, confirming it as a distinct species.

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Ans: (b)
Sol: Pangolins are the only mammals with large protective keratin scales, which they use as a defense mechanism by rolling into a ball when threatened.