Scientists have discovered a new species of burrowing snake from the lush, high-altitude forests of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The secretive reptile, newly named Trachischium lalremsangai and distinguished by its shiny, iridescent brown back and unique speckled belly, was first spotted by researchers from Mizoram University near Murlen National Park in Mizoram. The discovery occurred late at night on a muddy road, just after a brief rain shower, near the India-Myanmar border. After collecting the incredibly calm snake, the research team, including researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Biology, Germany, compared its physical traits and DNA to those of other known snakes. They even found a second, older specimen matching its description hidden away in a museum collection from Myanmar, confirming that they had officially uncovered a species new to science.
The small, non-venomous snake might look very similar to its closest known relative, Trachischium reticulata. However, by examining the snake's features closely, the researchers identified several unique characteristics that set it apart. The newly discovered species features exactly 13 rows of smooth scales running down its back and a very specific arrangement of small scales around its eyes and temples, including two distinct postocular scales just behind the eyes. It also sports a distinct colour pattern on its underside: the front quarter of its belly is a creamy white, while the rest transitions into a shade of brown dotted with delicate white speckles.
The researchers decided to name the new snake Trachischium lalremsangai as a tribute to a local wildlife expert. The name honours Professor Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga from Mizoram University, recognising his years of dedication to the study of reptiles and amphibians in Northeast India, his tireless mentorship of young wildlife students, and his efforts to promote research across the Indo-Burma region.
Snakes belonging to this genus are fossorial, meaning they are adapted to spend almost their entire lives burrowed deep underground in mountain forests between 800 and 2,500 metres above sea level. Because they live hidden in the soil and rarely emerge, they are incredibly difficult for scientists to find and study. The research team notes that the discovery of Trachischium lalremsangai underscores how much of the region's rich biodiversity remains overlooked, and they hope this exciting discovery will inspire further scientific exploration and conservation funding for these vital forests in the near future.
