newsgathers

Recent scientific investigations have unveiled the existence of two novel species of bent-toed geckos within the historical fortresses of Makwanpurgadhi and Hariharpurgadhi in Nepal. These findings, published in the esteemed journal ZooKeys, underscore the remarkable and often overlooked biodiversity harbored within seemingly desolate historical landmarks. The genetic uniqueness of these reptiles, differing significantly from other known Nepalese species, points to the potential for many more undiscovered life forms in the region, particularly within the less-explored Churia Hills.

Situated approximately four hours south of Kathmandu, Nepal's bustling capital, the Makwanpurgadhi Fort perches amidst the rugged terrain of the Siwalik range, more commonly known as the Churia Hills. Constructed in the 18th century by the illustrious Sen Dynasty, this formidable stronghold initially served as a regal residence before being repurposed as a strategic military outpost, playing a pivotal role in numerous historical conflicts. Its importance waned following Nepal's unification, yet today, it continues to draw countless visitors eager to delve into its abandoned structures and absorb its rich history.

Despite their weathered appearance, the fort's crumbling walls and shadowed recesses provide an unexpected sanctuary for a variety of secretive reptiles. It was within these moss-laden stone walls that scientists encountered numerous peculiar bent-toed geckos. Their detailed study, featured in ZooKeys, characterized these reptiles as medium-sized, exhibiting distinct enlarged, subtly keeled bumps on their scales, setting them apart from previously documented species.

A similar population of geckos was simultaneously identified at the nearby Hariharpurgadhi Fort. These particular lizards, however, presented a more slender and diminutive physique. The research team formally named one of these newly identified species 'Cyrtodactylus makwanpurgadhiensis,' in tribute to its discovery location, the Makwanpurgadhi Fort. The second species received the name 'Cyrtodactylus chure,' acknowledging its presence within the Chure mountain range. Comprehensive genetic analyses unequivocally demonstrated the unique nature of these two reptile species, revealing a minimum of 11% divergence in their mitochondrial DNA sequences compared to other known Nepalese bent-toed species, and an even greater distinction of approximately 17% between themselves.

Beyond their genetic divergences, each newly identified species exhibits a distinct array of physical characteristics. These include subtle variations in scale patterns, overall body proportions, and the specific arrangement of small protuberances along their dorsal regions, limbs, and tails. This groundbreaking discovery profoundly illustrates that even widely frequented cultural heritage sites can still conceal a wealth of undiscovered biodiversity. The Churia Hills, unlike the extensively surveyed Himalayan zone with its towering peaks and renowned trekking paths, has remained comparatively underexplored in Nepal. The presence of these previously unknown gecko species strongly indicates that this region may harbor a significantly greater number of undiscovered species than previously assumed, highlighting its immense ecological importance and the need for continued scientific exploration.

The Makwanpurgadhi and Hariharpurgadhi forts are situated in central Nepal, merely a three-hour journey from Patan, Nepal's enchanting "City of Artisans." Travelers wishing to visit these historical sites can fly into Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. From there, options include renting a vehicle or booking a taxi to traverse National Highway 37 towards the hill sites. At Makwanpurgadhi Fort, knowledgeable local guides are available to impart insights into the area's extensive history, with mornings and late afternoons generally considered the most favorable times for a visit.