University of Delhi and Harvard scientists discover five new miniature frog species in Himalayas

GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biodiversity & conservation· Prelims· 12 November 2026

Why in news

Scientists from the University of Delhi and Harvard University discovered five new miniature frog species in India's eastern Himalayas, highlighting the region's role as a biodiversity hotspot.

Background

The discovery was published in the Royal Society Open Science journal on 11 November. The find more than doubled the known species in this specific group of miniature frogs.

Facts for Prelims

EnvironmentFive new miniature frog species were discovered in India's eastern Himalayas.
PlaceThe discovery was made in the eastern Himalayas of India.
FactThe discovery more than doubled the known species in this group of miniature frogs.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how the geological evolution of the Himalayas has contributed to the diversification of biodiversity in the region.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

Evolutionary adaptation: Rapid diversification of species in response to the tectonic uplift of the Himalayan range.
Conservation priority: Identifying eastern Himalayas as a critical biodiversity hotspot requiring specific ecological protection.

Keywords: biodiversity hotspot · speciation · Himalayan ecology · taxonomic discovery

Read the full news →Report a mistake in this note How notes are made Source: BBC ↗Also: GS1 · Physical geography (landforms, oceans, climate)Also: GS3 · Biotechnology & health research

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