‘Ambushing’ snakes and ‘basking’ skinks: Here are the latest new species
The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.
Unique creatures, odd animals and new species are discovered across the planet. Some are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses.
Learn more about some of the best new discoveries:
Creature with spike-covered genitalia found ‘ambushing’ in Thailand. See new species
In the rocky limestone landscape of Thailand, a new species of snake called the red-barred green pit viper (Trimeresurus erythrochloris) has been identified. These snakes, with their “bright grass green” bodies and “serrated” reddish-brown markings, were found in an isolated chain of limestone hills in southeastern Thailand. The species is noted for its unique genitalia and nocturnal habits, making it vulnerable to habitat degradation and the illegal pet trade. | Published Jan. 28 | Read More |
Spiky venomous creature — caught off Japan coast — discovered as new species. See it
A new species of scorpionfish, the noslit scorpionfish (Phenacoscorpius trispinis), was discovered off the coast of Japan in Sagami Bay. This bright orange fish, with its venom-filled spines, blends into rocky reefs and is a bottom-dweller known for its large mouth and unique spines. The noslit scorpionfish stands out due to its three spines on the lacrimal bone, a feature not seen in other species of its kind. | Published Jan. 27 | Read More |
Miniature creature — with a ‘chastity belt’ — discovered as new species in Colombia
In the Amazon of Colombia, researchers discovered a new fish species, Priocharax rex, notable for its “chastity belt”-like skin flap. This miniature fish was found in slow-flowing terra-firme streams and is distinguished by its unique skin flap covering the urogenital pore. The discovery highlights the diversity of the Priocharax genus and adds to the understanding of these translucent-bodied fish. | Published Jan. 29 | Read More |
Colorful creature found ‘basking’ in sun on uninhabited island. It’s a new species
On Scawfell Island, off the coast of Australia, a new species of skink, the Scawfell Island sun skink (Lampropholis isla), was discovered. These skinks, found basking in rainforest sun gaps, have “robust” bodies and distinct coloring, with males displaying “bright orange” patches. The discovery emphasizes the conservation significance of Scawfell Island, which is home to unique endemic species. | Published Jan. 30 | Read More |
‘Copper’-eyed creature found lurking in Ecuador forest and discovered as new species
In the forests of northern Ecuador, researchers discovered a new species of rainfrog, Pristimantis praemortuus, known for its “copper” eyes and “long” limbs. These small frogs, found in mountainous regions, are at risk due to their restricted range and low abundance. The species was named to emphasize the importance of describing species before they face extinction. | Published Jan. 29 | Read More |
McClatchy News continues to follow the discovery of the most unusual and intriguing new species. Check back for the latest studies.
This story was originally published January 31, 2025 at 11:38 AM with the headline "‘Ambushing’ snakes and ‘basking’ skinks: Here are the latest new species."