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Picture Courtesy: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/researchers-identify-new-species-of-burrowing-frog-in-urban-bengaluru/article67795686.ece

Context: The discovery of a new species of burrowing frog, Sphaerotheca varshaabhu, in Bengaluru, is a significant milestone in biodiversity research.

Key points regarding this discovery

Discovery of Sphaerotheca varshaabhu

• Researchers from various national and international organizations identified and documented the previously unknown species of frog thriving in the urban landscape of Bengaluru.
• The discovery challenges preconceptions about where new species can be found and highlights the resilience of wildlife in unexpected urban ecosystems.

Distinctive Characteristics

• Sphaerotheca varshaabhu exhibits distinctive characteristics that set it apart from known frog species.
• It is named after its behaviour of coming out of burrows during early showers, indicating its adaptation to urban surroundings.

Adaptation to Urban Environment

• Sphaerotheca varshaabhu has adapted to its urban surroundings, displaying behaviours and physical attributes that help it navigate the challenges posed by urbanization.
• This adaptation underscores the need for continued exploration of urban ecosystems and the preservation of biodiversity in areas heavily impacted by human activities.

Role of Urban Green Spaces

• Researchers are still exploring the role of urban and peri-urban green locales in supporting biodiversity.
• The discovery of Sphaerotheca varshaabhu provides insight into how larger spaces and water bodies in urban areas could conserve species diversity.

Conclusion

• The discovery of Sphaerotheca varshaabhu underscores the importance of biodiversity research in urban environments and highlights the need for conservation efforts to protect wildlife in these areas.

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