New venomous apecies, Rahim's eyelash pit viper, discovered in Ecuadorian forest

A recent discovery in the forests of Ecuador unveiled a new venomous creature measuring about 1-foot-long with distinct spiky "eyelashes." This newly identified species, named Bothriechis rahimi or Rahim's eyelash pit viper, was encountered by scientists during a hunting observation.

The researchers, aiming to study the intriguing group of snakes known as eyelash pit vipers, published their findings in the peer-reviewed journal Evolutionary Systematics on Feb. 8. Their investigation revealed that the pit vipers from Ecuador and Colombia exhibited significant variation in coloration and habitat, leading to suspicions of misidentification.

Identification process

By scrutinizing over 400 specimens from museum collections, the researchers identified a pattern and pinpointed a unique species with pink bands and spiky "eyelashes." As a result, the discovery of Rahim's eyelash pit viper emerged. This species can grow up to 19 inches in length, boasting "raised" and "spinelike" scales above its "pale straw yellow" eyes, along with a "prehensile" tail.

Diversity and Habitat

The researchers observed a diverse range of coloration among Rahim's eyelash pit vipers, including carrot, lemon yellow, and seafoam green mixed with dull brown. These snakes are tree-dwellers, inhabiting coastal forests, where they are often spotted hunting, consuming frogs, and perched on vegetation.

Snakebite incident

Although venomous, the new species has only been associated with one snakebite, which occurred in 2013 when a Rahim's eyelash pit viper bit a photographer's index finger. The photographer and co-author of the study, Lucas Bustamante, recounted experiencing local pain, dizziness, and swelling, but made a full recovery after receiving antivenom treatment.

Environmental conservation and DNA analysis

The researchers paid tribute to Prince Rahim Aga Khan, an advocate for environmental conservation, by naming the new species after him. Rahim's eyelash pit vipers have been identified in 12 sites in extreme northwestern Ecuador and southwestern Colombia, including the Tundaloma Lodge in Ecuador.

DNA analysis confirmed the uniqueness of the new species, exhibiting genetic divergence from other eyelash pit vipers. Additionally, the research team discovered four more new species of pit vipers: Khwarg's eyelash pit viper, Klebba's eyelash pit viper, Shah's eyelash pit viper, and Hussain's eyelash pit viper.

Significance of the discovery

This remarkable discovery adds to the growing list of new species uncovered each year. The findings shed light on the biodiversity of the Ecuadorian forest and emphasize the importance of scientific research and conservation efforts in safeguarding these unique and fascinating creatures.