India adds 709 new animal species and 353 plant taxa to biodiversity database in 2025
India's biodiversity database expanded significantly in 2025 with the addition of 709 new animal species and 353 new plant taxa. The animal discoveries include 483 species new to science and 226 new records for India, while the plant additions comprise 14 infraspecific taxa. This was announced by Union Minister Bhupender Yadav, based on reports from the Zoological Survey of India and Botanical Survey of India. Kerala recorded the highest number of new animal species (98), while Arunachal Pradesh led in new flora findings (49). Notable discoveries include new bat, lizard, and snake species, reinforcing India's status as one of the world's premier mega-diverse nations.
Key Points
- India added 709 new animal species and 353 new plant taxa to its biodiversity database in 2025.
- The discoveries include species new to science and new distributional records for India.
- Kerala recorded the highest number of new animal species (98), while Arunachal Pradesh led in new flora findings (49).
- Notable fauna discoveries include Myotis himalaicus (bat), Ptyctolaemus mamdaphaensis and Ptyctolaemu siangensis (lizards), and Lycodon irwini (wolf snake).
- The additions reaffirm India's status as one of the world's premier mega-diverse nations.
Exam Facts
- Total new animal species: 709 (483 new to science, 226 new records).
- Total new plant taxa: 353 (14 infraspecific taxa).
- India's total faunal biodiversity now stands at 1,05,953 species.
- Highest new animal species: Kerala (98).
- Highest new flora findings: Arunachal Pradesh (49).
- Reports from: Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) and Botanical Survey of India (BSI).
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