New purple-brown crab species found in Western Ghats
A new species of freshwater crab has been discovered in Karnataka’s Western Ghats. It has been named Ghatiana karnataka, after the state where it was found.
The find was led by beat forester Ajmeer K of the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary’s Kollur range. He spotted the crabs on the forest floor and took photographs to scientists for identification.
The discovery was formally described on July 21 this year in the journal Species. Zoological Survey of India scientist Santanu Mitra, who co-authored the paper, said the crab was confirmed as a new species after detailed study.
The crab belongs to a group found only in the Western Ghats. It is the fifteenth known species of the genus Ghatiana, all endemic to the region. It is also the eighth species of the genus recorded in Karnataka.
Ajmeer K’s field work and quick action drew praise from scientists. The sanctuary is known for its rich wildlife, and the find adds to its biodiversity record.
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