Priya Ranganathan, a researcher at the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE), has published a book titled "The Dark Forest: An Illustrated Guide to the Biodiversity of the Myristica Swamps." Her fascination with these unique ecosystems began in 2019 during a research project in the Western Ghats. These swamps, associated with the Myristica or nutmeg family, are among the least studied and most endangered wetland ecosystems in India.

Key highlights from the article include:

• Priya's initial encounter with Myristica swamps in 2019, which inspired her deep interest in these ecosystems.
• Her ongoing PhD research at ATREE, focusing on scientifically assessing these swamps.
• Myristica swamps are freshwater ecosystems found only in certain parts of the Western Ghats, characterized by their reliance on monsoon rainfall and unique hydrological cycles.
• They host a rich biodiversity, including endemic species like the lion-tailed macaque, Malabar giant squirrel, and critically endangered Kottigehar dancing frog.
• These swamps offer significant ecosystem services, such as groundwater replenishment, temperature regulation, and flood prevention.
• Some swamps hold cultural significance as sacred sites in local communities.
• Despite their importance, Myristica swamps receive little attention compared to coastal wetlands like mangroves.
• Threats to these ecosystems include encroachment from agriculture, particularly areca nut plantations and paddy fields, as well as water extraction, which disrupts the growth of seedlings.
• Priya emphasizes the need for recognizing and conserving swamps as wetlands rather than classifying them solely as forests to enhance conservation strategies.
• "The Dark Forest" combines engaging illustrations with scientific insights, aimed at fostering a connection between readers and the ecosystem.
• The book has already received positive feedback, and Priya is actively seeking a publisher for wider distribution.

These Myristica swamps represent not just a unique ecological niche but also a critical aspect of the cultural and environmental landscape of the Western Ghats, warranting urgent attention and preservation measures.

Important Sentences:

• Priya Ranganathan's initial encounter with Myristica swamps in 2019 sparked her deep interest in these ecosystems.
• Myristica swamps are considered some of the least studied and most endangered wetland ecosystems in India.
• These swamps are crucial for supporting several endemic species, contributing to biodiversity in the Western Ghats.
• They provide essential ecosystem services, including groundwater replenishment and flood prevention.
• Many Myristica swamps serve as sacred sites for local communities, highlighting their cultural importance.
• Threats to Myristica swamps include agricultural encroachment and water extraction, fueled by human activities.
• Priya advocates for a change in the classification of swamps from forests to wetlands to improve conservation efforts.
• "The Dark Forest" is aimed at connecting readers to these unique ecosystems, supported by engaging illustrations.

A recent study spanning over two decades has led to the discovery of a new species of frog, named Leptobrachium aryatium, which is associated with Arya Vidyapeeth College in Guwahati, Assam. This naming is significant as it symbolizes a shift in the local identity of Aryanagar, formerly known as Sharabbhati, a hub for country liquor production. The renaming in 2022 aimed to honor the educational institution's reputation and its contributions to the community.

The new frog species was identified in the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, an area that borders Meghalaya and is recognized for its rich biodiversity. The frog has unique features, including vibrant orange-and-black eyes a reticulated throat pattern, and a distinctive call during dusk, which helped zoologists confirm its status as a previously unknown species.

The naming and discovery were undertaken by a team of four zoologists, who are either alumni or faculty of Arya Vidyapeeth College. They published their findings in the journal Zootaxa. The genus Leptobrachium, to which the new frog belongs, includes a range of stocky frogs characterized by broad heads and distinct eye coloration. The genus features 38 species that are spread from Southern China and India to the islands of the Sunda Shelf and the Philippines.

The research that culminated in the identification of Leptobrachium aryatium began in 2004 when the species was originally thought to be Leptobrachium smithi. The recent molecular and morphological studies revealed a significant diversity within the genus. The team utilized their previous data alongside new findings from other species to establish the frog as a distinct species.

This discovery has drawn attention to the Garbhanga Reserve Forest, which is crucial not just for its biodiversity but also for sustaining the ecological balance in Guwahati by regulating the climate and water systems in the region. Besides the new frog species, the reserve also provides habitat for elephants, butterflies, rare birds, reptiles, and various amphibians, highlighting its significance as a biodiversity hotspot.

Key Points:

• A new frog species, Leptobrachium aryatium, was discovered by researchers from Arya Vidyapeeth College in Assam.
• The locality, previously known as Sharabbhati for liquor production, was renamed Aryanagar in 2022 to honor the college.
• The frog was identified in the biodiversity-rich Garbhanga Reserve Forest, which borders Meghalaya.
• Notable features of the frog include fiery orange-and-black eyes, a distinctive throat pattern, and a unique call.
• The discovery was published in the journal Zootaxa and underscores the diversity of the Leptobrachium genus.
• The research highlighted the ecological importance of Garbhanga Reserve Forest in sustaining the local climate and water systems.
• The area is a habitat for various species, including elephants and rare birds, emphasizing its significance as a biodiversity hotspot.