New Snake and Crake Species Reported from Great Nicobar Island

New Snake and Crake Species Identified from Great Nicobar Island

Great Nicobar Island, one of India’s most biologically rich yet understudied regions, has once again yielded remarkable scientific discoveries. Researchers have described a new snake species and documented what may be a new bird species , adding to nearly 40 organisms identified from the island since 2021. These findings further highlight the island’s exceptional biodiversity and the pressing need to conserve its fragile ecosystems.

Discovery of Lycodon irwini

A newly described wolf snake, Lycodon irwini , has been recorded along the island’s eastern coastline. Named in honour of conservationist Steve Irwin , the species is known from only four observations , indicating extreme rarity and a very restricted range. The study, published in Evolutionary Systematics by scientists from Pondicherry University, the Max Planck Institute for Biology and independent naturalists, recommends classifying the species as Endangered based on IUCN criteria due to its limited habitat and potential threats.

Great Nicobar Crake: A Potential New Bird Species

Another significant finding is the documentation of the Great Nicobar Crake ( Rallina sp.), photographed only three times in over ten years . Reported in the journal Indian Birds , this elusive bird exhibits unique morphological features not seen in existing crake species. Its behaviour, habitat preferences and population size remain poorly known, warranting urgent field research.

A Biodiversity Hotspot with High Endemism

Great Nicobar is home to roughly 650 plant species and over 1,800 faunal species , with several groups showing up to 24% endemism . Recent discoveries—including frogs, geckos, insects and crabs—demonstrate how much of the island’s biodiversity remains undocumented.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Lycodon irwini described in 2025; only four known records .

• Great Nicobar Crake photographed three times in a decade .

• Island hosts 650 plant species and 1,800+ fauna species .

• Endemism levels reach 24% in some faunal groups.