Northeast Desk, 13th January: Researchers from Mizoram University’s zoology department, in collaboration with peers from outside the state, have discovered a new species of coral snake in Mizoram. The researchers have named the newfound coral snake species “Sinomicrurus Gorei,” in honor of Dr. Gore, a medical officer from the British regime era. Locally, it is referred to as “Rul Thi Hna” due to its resemblance to a traditional Mizo necklace known as “Thi Hna.”
The discovery occurred during the study of skeletons and DNA of coral snakes in Mizoram. Following this breakthrough, the findings were published in the British Science Journal, Systematics & Biodiversity, on January 10.
This discovery marks the tenth known species of Sinomicrurus coral snakes globally, with Mizoram contributing a significant addition to the biodiversity of these fascinating reptiles. Before this, only one species, named Sinomicrurus Macclellandi, had been identified in Northeast India.
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