New genetically pure species of giant salamander discovered in China

A wild and genetically pure salamander belonging to the group of Chinese giant salamanders has been discovered in Jing'an county, Jiangxi province. The newly discovered salamander is called Andrias jiangxiensis sp. nov.

The newly discovered salamander named Andrias jiangxiensis sp. nov.

The new species of salamander, Andrias jiangxiensis sp. nov. Discovered by researchers at the Kunming Institute of Zoology, it is also the first purebred salamander to be identified in the Chinese giant salamander group.

The discovery is the result of 18 months of field work by biologists, during which they monitored the reproductive conditions of 700 Chinese giant salamanders, including adults, juveniles, and juveniles. developing and newly hatched chicks.

The researchers determined that this line of salamanders had not been interbred with outside individuals, so that they maintained their genetic purity. The study also provides an important basis for assessing the endangered level of this species and developing appropriate protective action plans.

The project's lead researcher, Che Jing, told The Global Times: "The discovery of a new species of salamander gives us hope for the conservation of the Chinese giant salamander."  

The Chinese giant salamander is the largest salamander in the world as well as the largest amphibian. They are now considered critically endangered due to habitat destruction, pollution, over-exploitation and poaching. (Photo: Internet)

The Chinese giant salamander is a rare amphibian endemic to China's only freshwater areas. They are dubbed 'living fossils' with a lifetime of at least 165 million years. The earliest fossils of this type were discovered in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. In China, they are commonly known as 'Doll Fish' or 'Baby Fish' (due to the unique sound they make, which resembles the sound of a baby crying) and are also protected wildlife. national focus.

According to the research report, the habitat of Andrias jiangxiensis sp. nov . They only cover an area of ​​36 square kilometers, which makes them relatively isolated from other environments. However, rapid environmental changes can make these species endangered, so an urgent action plan is needed.

This creature has been around for at least 165 million years.

"The study provides references and evidence for endangered species affected by human activities, thereby helping to develop and refine protection plans," said lead researcher. It is expected that many more similar purebred groups will be found in the wild and will devise effective and scientific defenses on this basis."