Reuters reveals the discovery of 27 new species in the Peruvian Amazon, including a strange species of amphibious mice:
Scientists also discovered a spiny mouse, a squirrel, eight types of fish, three amphibians and 10 types of butterflies, Trond Larsen, head of Conservation International’s Rapid Assessment Program, told Reuters this week.
He added that another 48 species found by investigators were potentially new, but needed further study.
The new species were found in Alto Mayo, a protected area with several ecosystems, Indigenous territories and villages.…
“It was really fantastic to work so closely with the Awajun people. They have extensive traditional knowledge about the forests, animals and plants they live side-by-side with,” Larsen said.
Among the new species, Larsen highlighted the spiny mouse that has stiff fur, the amphibious mouse, and a dwarf squirrel that measures 14 cm (5.5 in).“(The squirrel) fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown color, very fast,” Larsen said. “It jumps quickly and hides in the trees.”
Another favorite discovery was the blob-headed fish, a type of armored catfish, he said.
A total of 2,046 species were recorded during the 38-day expedition using camera traps, bioacoustic sensors and DNA sampling. Among them, 49 were classified as threatened, including the yellow-tailed woolly monkey and the tree monkey.