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The species was identified through a collaborative effort involving researchers from multiple institutions, including Help Earth, Cotton University, Assam Don Bosco University, Mizoram University, the Zoological Survey of India, and Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency.

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma acknowledged the discovery and congratulated the research team for their efforts. In a post on X, he said the finding underscores the unique ecological wealth of the state and the importance of preserving its forests.

“The discovery of Calamaria garoensis highlights the rich and unique biodiversity of our state and the immense value of our natural ecosystems,” Sangma noted, while commending the contribution of all institutions involved in the research.

The Garo Hills, part of a recognised biodiversity hotspot, are known for their dense tropical and subtropical forests that support a wide variety of plant and animal species. Due to limited scientific exploration in certain pockets, many species in the region are still being documented.

Snakes of the Calamaria genus are typically small and elusive, often found beneath leaf litter or underground. Their secretive nature makes them difficult to detect, which is why new species within this group continue to be discovered