Expeditionary Team Finds 27 New Species In Alto Mayo Peru: There Are Amphibious Tikus To Various Types Of Butterfly

The discovery of new animals. (Source: Conservation International / Ronald Diaz)

JAKARTA - The expedition team that explored the protected area in Peru managed to find 27 new animal species, ranging from amphibious mice to various types of butterflys.

The animals were discovered during an expedition to Alto Mayo, which includes the Amazon rainforest, by scientists from the nonprofit Conservation International and members of the local indigenous group, quoted from the BBC December 20.

"Finding so many new mammal species and vertebrates is truly extraordinary, especially in human-affected landscapes," said Trond Larsen, senior director at Conservation International.

Apart from the animals, at least 48 other new species may have also been discovered, although further research is needed to determine whether they are new, Conservation International said.

Alto Mayo is a protected area in northern Peru with various ecosystems and traditional areas.

"The population density is relatively high, thus suppressing the environment through deforestation and agricultural expansion," said Conservation International.

In addition to amphibious mice, the new species that was discovered during the 2022 expedition included barbed rat, a squirrel, eight types of fish, three amphibious animals and 10 types of butterflys, Larsen told Reuters.

Held from June to July 2022, the expedition involved 13 scientists plus local technicians and members of the Indigenous community.

"It's amazing to be able to work with the Awajun people. They have extensive traditional knowledge about the forests, animals and plants that live side by side with them," explained Larsen.

From the expedition team's findings, Larsen highlighted stiff-haired thorny mice, amphibious mice and dwarf squirrels measuring 14 cm.

"(The plane) fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. The adorable and beautiful brown color is very fast," explained Larsen.

"He jumped fast and hid in the trees," he added.

Another favorite discovery was lump-headed fish, a type of steel-coated catfish, he said.

Meanwhile, Yulisa Tuwi, the Awajun woman who helped with the study, said the report "allows Awajmen to protect our culture, natural resources and territory", as the report provides them with a better understanding of ecosystems.

"(Awajunn people) have extensive traditional knowledge of the forests, animals and plants that coexist with them," explained Larsen.

A total of 2,046 species were successfully documented by the 38-day expedition using camera traps, bioacoustic sensors to DNA sampling.

Of these, 49 species are classified as threatened, including yellow-tailed fur monkeys and tree monkeys.

Larsen said the discovery strengthened the need to protect the area.

"Unless steps are taken now to protect these sites and help restore some of the landscape, it is likely that these sites will not survive in the long term," said Larsen.