Expedition in Peru Uncovers 27 New Species, Including Web-footed Mouse

Scientists have identified 27 previously unknown species in Peru, including an amphibious mouse with webbed feet and a fish characterized by an enlarged head. These discoveries resulted from an expedition to Alto Mayo, an area encompassing parts of the Amazon rainforest, conducted by researchers from the non-profit Conservation International in collaboration with local indigenous communities. Conservation International also noted that an additional 48 species might have been found, though their novelty requires further verification. Trond Larsen, a senior director at Conservation International, commented, “Discovering so many new species of mammals and vertebrates is really incredible, especially in such a human-influenced landscape.” Alto Mayo, located in northern Peru, is a protected region featuring diverse ecosystems and Indigenous lands. According to Conservation International, its comparatively high population density contributes to environmental strain through activities like deforestation and the expansion of agriculture. Yulisa Tuwi, an Awajún woman who participated in the research, stated that the findings “allows the Awajún to protect our culture, natural resources and our territory,” by enhancing their comprehension of the ecosystems. Mr. Larsen added that “[The Awajún] have extensive traditional knowledge about the forests, animals and plants they live side-by-side with.” The expedition additionally identified a new dwarf squirrel species, eight varieties of fish, three amphibian species, and ten types of butterfly. While the “blob-headed” fish represents a novel scientific discovery, the Indigenous Awajún people who aided the expedition were already familiar with its presence. The researchers studying the fish expressed particular astonishment at its unusually large head, a characteristic they had not previously encountered. This dwarf squirrel measures merely 14cm (5.5in), which is half the size of an average grey squirrel in the UK, typically ranging from 24 to 29cm, as per the UK Squirrel Accord. Larsen described it as “[It] fits so easily in the palm of your hand. Adorable and beautiful chestnut-brown colour, very fast,” adding, “It jumps quickly and hides in the trees.” Furthermore, scientists uncovered a new species of spiny mouse, named for the notably rigid guard hairs on its coat, which resemble a hedgehog’s spines. Additionally, a new “amphibious mouse” was identified, possessing partially webbed feet and consuming aquatic insects. This rodent is part of a category of semi-aquatic rodents recognized as some of the planet’s rarest, with the few known species having been observed by scientists only on a limited number of occasions.