Ghatiana Karnataka: Mookambika forester discovers new crab species named after the state

Ghatiana Karnataka: Mookambika forester discovers new crab species named after the state

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, Aug 13, 2026: A beat forester from the Mookambika Wildlife Sanctuary has scientifically described a new species of freshwater crab, Ghatiana karnataka, adding to the rich biodiversity of the Western Ghats.

The discovery was recently published in the international scientific journal Species. The study was authored by beat forester Ajmeer K. and Santanu Mitra of the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata.

Ghatiana karnataka is the 15th species belonging to the Ghatiana genus to be discovered in the Western Ghats. Of these, eight species, including the newly identified crab, are endemic to Karnataka. Notably, the last four freshwater crab species discovered in the state were identified through the efforts of beat foresters working alongside citizen scientists.

Ajmeer stumbled upon this new species some two years ago while patrolling in Mavinakaru range inside one the densely forested area of central Western Ghats. The dark purple body and light pink claws was distinct from the seven other species of Ghatiana that were discovered in Karnataka.

According to Ajmeer, unlike other species of the genus that are difficult to spot during the dry season, Ghatiana karnataka can be found throughout the year.

“One reason for its year-round presence is its habitat. The species lives near perennial streams in evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. During the monsoon, they can be seen on laterite rocks, while in other seasons they take shelter in moist tree cavities,” he said.

Ajmeer thanked the Forest Department for supporting the research and study.

Santanu Mitra described the discovery as significant, noting that the presence of the species indicates an unpolluted and undisturbed forest ecosystem.

“Ghatiana karnataka is highly sensitive to environmental changes. Like other freshwater crabs, it reacts quickly to alterations in its habitat. As a bio-indicator species, its presence reflects the pristine nature of the forest and highlights the need to conserve such ecosystems,” he said.

He added that while eight of the 15 known Ghatiana species have been discovered in Karnataka, the central Western Ghats still hold immense potential for further discoveries, as the region remains relatively underexplored.

Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Kumar Pushkar praised the achievement, stating that Ajmeer had devoted considerable time to studying the species in addition to carrying out his regular duties.

“Along with performing his daily responsibilities, he spent several days studying the species and worked with scientists to document it in a scientific journal. It is a matter of pride for us,” he said.

Referring to similar discoveries made by beat foresters from different forest circles in Karnataka, Kumar Pushkar said the findings reflect the importance the state places on biodiversity conservation and scientific research.