Context:
New scientific discoveries from the Great Nicobar Island (GNI)—a region currently under a proposed mega-infrastructure project—have revealed a new snake species, a potentially new crake species, and nearly 40 newly reported species since 2021. These findings highlight the island’s exceptional biodiversity and raise fresh concerns about ecological impacts of the project.
Key Highlights
Discovery of New Species
- A new snake species, Lycodon irwini, discovered and described in the Journal Evolutionary Systematics.
- Named after Australian zookeeper Steve Irwin.
- Only four known records so far, making it extremely rare.
- Researchers recommend classifying it as Endangered (IUCN) due to its restricted range and threats.
Potential New Crake Species
- A crake (bird) species from the Rāllina sp. group has been tentatively identified.
- Currently under study; initial observations highlight distinctive morphology and possibly evolutionarily novel traits.
Rich and Fragile Biodiversity of Great Nicobar
- Island hosts 650 plant species and 1,800+ animal species.
- Exhibits nearly 24% endemism, with many species found nowhere else.
- Recent discoveries include:
- Frog species
- Crabs
- Gecko species
- Multiple insects including flies, moths, beetles
- Overall, ~40 species have been reported newly since 2021.
Conservation Concerns
- New species findings arrived amid ongoing infrastructure plans at GNI.
- Scientists warn of weak data regarding population status and distribution.
- Highlighted need for long-term ecological assessments before major development.
- Experts emphasize GNI has “the finest tropical rainforest left in India,” demanding protection.
Relevant Prelims Points
- Great Nicobar Island (GNI):
- Part of Andaman & Nicobar Islands; located in the southernmost region.
- Features tropical evergreen forests, mangroves, coral reefs, and high endemism.
- Home to Shompen tribe (Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group).
- IUCN Red List Categories:
- Endangered: Faces extremely high risk of extinction in the wild.
- Data Deficient: Insufficient information for assessment.
- Endemism:
- Species found exclusively in a particular geographic region.
- GNI shows significant endemism in reptiles, amphibians, and birds.
- Crakes (Family: Rallidae):
- Small to medium birds, typically inhabiting wetlands and forest undergrowth.
- Many species show secretive behavior, making discovery difficult.
- Significance of New Species Discovery:
- Indicator of ecological richness and data gaps.
- Supports stricter Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) norms.
Relevant Mains Points
Ecological Importance of Great Nicobar Island
- GNI hosts India’s richest tropical rainforest system.
- Acts as a major carbon sink, stabilizes climate, and safeguards endemic species.
- Presence of rare/endangered species increases conservation value.
Threats Due to Infrastructure Projects
- Proposed projects include transshipment port, airstrip, and tourism facilities.
- Risks:
- Habitat fragmentation
- Species extinction (especially micro-endemic species)
- Disruption of tribal habitats
- Increased human footprint in ecologically sensitive zones
Biodiversity and EIA Concerns
- Rapid discoveries reveal insufficient baseline ecological studies.
- EIAs must incorporate:
- Comprehensive species surveys
- Climate resilience evaluation
- Cumulative impact assessment
- Long-term ecological monitoring
Governance & Legal Dimensions
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980
- Environmental Protection Act, 1986
- Island Protection Zone Notification provides specific rules for A&N Islands.
- Supreme Court judgments emphasize precautionary principle and sustainable development.
Way Forward
- Strengthen scientific surveys before project approvals.
- Prioritize in-situ conservation and expand protected areas.
- Adopt low-impact development models.
- Engage indigenous communities in decision-making.
- Ensure transparent and independent environmental appraisal processes.